History of Daviess County, Kentucky, together with sketches of its cities, villages, and townships, educational religious, civil military, and political history, portraits of prominent persons, biographies of representative citizens, and an outline history of Kentucky. 400dpi TIFF G4 page images University of Kentucky, Electronic Information Access & Management Center Lexington, Kentucky 2002 b02-000000010 These pages may freely searched and displayed. Permission must be received for subsequent distribution in print or electronically. History of Daviess County, Kentucky, together with sketches of its cities, villages, and townships, educational religious, civil military, and political history, portraits of prominent persons, biographies of representative citizens, and an outline history of Kentucky. Inter-state Publishing Co., Chicago : 1883. 4 p. ; 17-870 p. ports., fold. map. 24 cm. Coleman IMLS This electronic text file was created by Optical Character Recognition (OCR). No corrections have been made to the OCR-ed text and no editing has been done to the content of the original document. Encoding has been done through an automated process using the recommendations for Level 1 of the TEI in Libraries Guidelines. Digital page images are linked to the text file. Daviess County (Ky.) History. Daviess County (Ky.) Biography. HISTORY OF DAVIES COU-NTY, KENTUCKY. TOGETHER WITH SKETCHES OF ITS CITIES, VILLAGES AND TOWNSHIPS, EDU- CATIONAL, RELIGIOUS, CIVIL, MILITARY, AND POLITICAL HISTORY; PORTRAITS OF PROMINENT PERSONS, BIOGRAPHIES OF REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS. AND AN OUTLINE HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. CHICAGO: INTER-STATE PUBLISHING CO. 1883. PREFACE. After months of unremitting labor the " History of Daviess C(.onnty" is ready for our patrons. None can better understand than those who have assisted us, the difficulties to be met in the preparation of a work of this kind. Public documents have been examined, newspaper files have been reviewed, old settlers and prominent men have been visited for the purpose of making the record as complete as possible and gaining information of interest and value to the subscribers. The incompleteness ot the public records and the convicting statements have tended to perplex the compilers, but we trust in the main the work will prove satisfactory. Members of a family often differ as to the spelling of names, contradict each other's statements as to the dates of birth. settlement in the county, and nativity; we, therefore, have tried to give preference to the majority. While errors must necessarily occur under such circumstances we feel that we have fulfilled our promises and have given as correct a record, historically and biographically, as it is possible to obtain. Whatever may be the verdict of those who do not realize the extent of our work, and therefore make no allowance for the many ways in which errors may occur, we feel sure that all thoughtful and just persons will appreciate our efforts, will recognize the great public benefit that has been accomplished, and will value the book as a memorial in the years to come of the lives and adventures of the early pioneers, of the lives of men prominent in political and business circles, and of individuals less prominent but none the less necessary to the county's history, that would otherwise have passed into oblivion. We tender our thanks to the pioneers, county officials, pastors of churches, officers of societies and members of the press for PREFACE. their kind assistance in the collation of data for this history. Especially are we thankful for the aid given us by those who have subscribed for the work, ahid trast that the pleasure they will have as the years go by. in recalling incidents that are related in its pages, will more than compensate for their untiring efforts to make it a perfect history of Daviess County. For Chapter II., entitled "Bill Smothers," so replete with reminiscences of early settlement, we are indebted mostly to the story published by Colonel Thos. S. McCreery, in the MAonitor several years ago. INTER-STATE PUBLISHING CO. Chicago, May, 1883. CONTENTS. HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. Outline History-State Officers-United States Senators-Representatives in Congress- Eminent en from Kentucky-Kentucky School Statistcs-Illiteracy in Kentucky -Population-Census of 1880 ............. . ........ .. 17-48 HISTORY OF DAVIES4S COUNTY. CHAPTER I. Early Settlement-Early Preachers-Other Early Officiale-Miscellaneous Notes-A Retrospect ............ ............. 49-62 CHAPTER II. Bill Smothers ............... ......... 63 CHAPTER 1II. Life and Times of Robert Triplett ........... 79 CHAPTER IV. Organic, Legal and Political-Origin of the County and of its Name-Surveys-Political Notes - Election Returns-Officials - The Courts-Federal Judicial Dietrict-County Courts-Bar Association ........... .. 94-111 CHAPTER V. Sketches of Public Men ................ 112-157 CHAPTER VI. The Ci-;il War-The Skirmish near Owensbcoro -The Battle at Sutherland's Hill-The Death of Colonel Netter-War Diary Re- sumed-Kentucky under Martial Law- Owensboro captured-Owensboro Taken Again-Company A, First Kentucky Cav- Olry-Sue 31uinday ............. .... 1.58-178 CHAPTER VII. M' terial Progress-Population of Daviess County-Census of 1880, in Detail--Agricult- ural Census-Daviess County Agricultural aud Mechanical Association - Daviess County Fair A ssociation-Daviess County Farmers' Club-Daviess County Sorgho Sugar Company-Importation of Foreign Labor-Green River N avigation-Green and B irren River Navigation Company-Daviess County Gravel Road Companies-Telegraph -Railroads-Owensboro Nashville Rail- road-Proposed Railroads ........... 179-196 CHAPTER VIII. The Press-Defanct Newspapers-Living Newepapers........ ....... 197-20, CHAPTER IX. Authors and Artists-Song of the Hammock- A Remarkable Autograph Album...207-222 CHAPTER X. ledical-The Owensboro Medical Society- The Green River Medical Association-The McDowell Medical Association-The Ken- tucky Pharmaceutical Association-Physi- cians of the Past-Present Physicians 223-244 CHAPTER XI. Geology of Daviess County-Physical Fpatures -Rivers and Creeks-The Soil-Coal- Limestone and Sandstone-Otber Mineral, - Mineral Springs ...................... 245-262 CHAPTER XII. Botany and Zoology-Tall Trees-Low Trees -Busbes and Shrubs-Vines-Native Hi rte, -Weeds-Zoology-Wild Bees .......- 2683-.4 CHAPTER XIII. Meteorology-Diary of Joseph Thomas-Tem- perature-Ohio Floods-The Flo.d ol 1883- Miscellaneous ..................... 275-94 CHAPTER XIV. Miscellaneous - Court-House - Jail - Public Square-Poor House-Lost Records--he First Will-Milita' y-Capital Punishment- Murder of Robert MIcFarland-Murder of Willis Fields--Lod Duke-Education-Tem- perance-Celebrations-Southern Relief- Land League-Archoeology-Daviess Coun- tv's Hunters' Club-The First Marriage- Marriage Record-First Steamboat Down the Ohio-Anecdotal-Distances Along 'le Ohio River, from Louisville to Cairo-Dis- tances on Green River-Distances by the 0. N. R. R.-Post-Offices-Countv Atlas- Owensboro Directory and County Gazetteer 295-3-20 CHAPTER XV. Owenebori - Morton's Day-Book - Yellow Banks, 1818-Owenaboro in 1820-Fragment- ary Items-General Progress-Owensboro as a City-Owensboro in 1872-Owensbero in 1882-Population-Citv Officers-Indus- trial and Commercial-First Livery Stables -Tobacco Houses-Distilleries-Other En- terprises-Banks-Hotels-Oweneboro In- dustries in 1880 .......... 321- 358 CHAPTER XVI. Owensboro Continued-Educational-Public Schools-Enrollment and Attendance-Ex. penses for Two Average Years-Churches 359-88 CHAPTER XVII. Oweusboco Continued-Benevolent Societies -Social and Miscellaneous Organization!- Cemeteries-Public Benevolence-Owens- boro Postmasters-Brief Mention-Illo- graphical .........,,,,,,,,,...... 387-50 CHAPTER XVIII. Boston Precinct-Whitesville Village-Busi- nese-Educational-Rellgious- Elections- Biographical -5. 554 coNTFEN'rs. CHAPTER XIX. Curdsville Precinct - Early Settlement - Churches - Curdsville - Delaware - West Louisville-Possum Trot-Elections-Bio- graphical..... , 555 590 CHAPTER XX. Knottsvllle Precinct-Early Settlement- Post- offices-Churches-Societies- Knotteville- Creeks-Elections-Biographical .... 591-630 CHAPTER XXI. Lower Town Precinct-Bon Harbor-Elections -Biographical ....6 . 631457, CHAPTER XXII. Masonville Precinct-Early Incidents-Trib- bel School-House-Churches -Masonic- Masonville-Elections-Biographical, 658-71I CHAPTER XXIII. Murray Precinct-Early Settlement-Cburches -Midls and Factories - Schools - Lewis Station-Newville-Pleasant Ridge-Elec- tions-Biographical.. .. 712-725 CHAPTER XXIV. Oakford Precinct-Early Settlement-Gris- Mom'sLanding-Birk City-Charches-Elee- tions-BiographCl ..ca . ........... 26-7675 CHAPTER XXV. Sorghotown Precinct - Elections-Biograph- ical . ............................... 776-795 CHAPTER XXVI. Upper Town Precinct - Early Settlement- Distilleries-A Neighborhood Battle-Elec- tions-Biographical ....... . ..... 96-827 CHAPTER XXVII. Vanover Precirnct -Early Settlement-Van- over's Mill-The Ditsu let School-House- Panther Creek Postoftice-Churchee-E ec- ttous-Biographical .... ........ 828-8 CHAPTER XXVIIl. Yelvington Precinct-Early Settlement-Yel- vington-Churches-Asa Smeathers-J uhn Lee-Elections Biographical ...... 849-867 Appendix.... .... 868-870 PORITRAITS. Berry. J. L.... 607 Bevier, R. S ...... .. ... ........ 09.......... 0 Bransord, BeDjamni ........4 ...... ..1..... 41 Calhoon, Samuel .779 Camp, J .mes W .........6...............7. fi3 Courtney, W. T ...........5 ... 4s Day, I-aac E .53.5 Hale, Caleb .................. .............. 5 Hale, Josiah .2-23 Hayden, Geo. S .300 Hayden, Mrs. Geo. S. ....................3ii1 Ho.mes, J. M.......... .... 735 Kimbley, J. F.......... 85 Knox, Wm. R .573 Little, Lucius P.... ......... 32 Mlattingly, ueo. D I...........4............ 470 Miller, dames C............. 699 Miller, P. J . ............. ....... Monarch, M. V .............3.............. 340 Monarch, Thomas ...... ...... I . 113 Newton, Col. Wm .............82.......... S0 Newton, Mrs. Wm ......... . ............ 821 Osborne, J. R . .. ..........423 Rudd, J. C . ......14. .. .............9.. 1 Solomon, J. B........ ...... 373 Tennes. Paul . ..................... 640 Todd, C. . 265 Triplett, Geo. .......... 163 U1L0GRAPHICAL SKETCHES. Able, Henry............... A dams, E. G .............. Allen, A. M............... Allen, J. F................ Allgood, A. S............. Allgood, G. A............. Alms, Albert F........... Anderson, r. S......... Armeudt, L. G ............ Arnold, G. M1............. Atchisol, J. D ............ And, Hillary rI And, Joseph B............ Aull, Benjamin T . Aull, I. A............... AulI, James............... Aill, fhos. B ........... Aull, Wm. T ............. Ayer, A. 0 ............. Baer, Bernhard.......... Bailey, Geo. W......... Baird, James .......... LIaker, Wm. P........... Balee, Abram............. Balee, J. W................ Barker, R. N .... ......... Barnett D. L.. Baruhili, Jas.M..... Barnhill, Jeremiah. Barnhull,Joseph .......... Barnhill, N. B.......... Barr, John A.............. Barrett, R. C.............. Bartlett, J. A............ Bartlett, S. W............ 604 112 569 217 569 114 429 429 227 4399 113 604 605 605 605 606 606 430 431 43F2 725 836 t02 765 778 6t17 433 666 522 523 687 638 323 523 524 Baughn, S. C ........... 837 Bell, B. U . .........8 3 Bel low, WIn . ....... .. 638 Bennett, I sac......... 7... 8 Bennett, Jae. H.7........ 26 Bennntt, S. W............ 27 Berkshire, K. Y .......... 433 Berry, J. I ........... 649 Berry,J. L .... . .......... 607 Berry, Mrs. S. A. ... 639 Bery, S. T ........ ..... 639 Bery, Thomas ............ 803 Bethel, J )hn R ............ 670 Bethel, T. P ..5.......... , 70 Bevier, Col. R. S .... .... 209 Bihb, on. G. M - 1...... 314 Birk, Geo. W ............ 85S Birk, James A ...... ..... 765 Birkheafl, J. F ......... .. 521 Bise, Samuel ..8.... .... 859 Bishop, J. H ........ ...... 434 Bishop, R. H.. 434 Bivens, James S. 837. 7 Blandford, A. P.. 570 Blandlord, J. M. . 727 Blandford, J. R.. . 571 Blandford, T. W.. . 28 Board, Elijah ............ 859 Boswell, Chapman.. 571 Boswell, Rev. C. C.. 5 71 Boswell, Geo: W... 8.59 Bottenwiser, J. 8.. 435 Botts, Benj ........... .... 03 Boulware, C. L.. 640 Boulware, M. F ......... . 640 Boulware, W. W . ........ 435 Bowlds, B. J. ....6... b08 Bowlds, J. D......... 608 Bowlds, L. A ........... 667 Bowlds, P. J......... 608 Bowlde. Zachariah ........ 609 Boyd, Baker ............... 115 Brausford, Benj ........... 437 Bransford, C. NV ........... 02 Braun, John W .......... . 438 Brisrow, Jasper..... 668 Brodie, Robert ........... 439 B, ooks. Rev. A. J ......... 887 Brooks, E M.............. 439 Brooka, George ............5 26 Brotherton, John..... 439 lBrownD. H.... .... 669 Brown, J. A ..... ......... 803 Brown, J.J .............. 571 Brown, J. P .............. 440 Brown, 0. 0 .............. 727 Bryan, Gabriel ............ 572 Bryan, R. A........ 641 Bryant, Ottaway... 669 Bryant, Samuel ........... 6 41 Burdett, P. H ............ W8 Burnett, L M ............ 728 Burnett, W. U ............ 440 Burton, Horace ..... ...... 527 Burton, J. A ............ 67) Burton, J. B...... ... 671 Burns, John P ............. 838 Cain C. T ................. 868 Calhoon, Geo. L.. . 78..... 8 Calhoon, Mitchell ......... 779 CoNrTENTs. Calhoon, Rev. S ...... ... 779 Calhoon, William .........7 78 Camp, Geo. LI .... . ...... 672 Camp, J. W ............. 673 Camp, Squire A. ......... 671 Campbeli, J. R ............ 641 Carrico, E. B ............. 572 Carico, Henry ............. 642 Carrico, John T ...........7. ,29 Carpenter, H. F .......... 2'8 Carter, John W ......... . 441 Cary, Chas. M1 ............. 838 Castlen, J. A ............. 609 Castlen, L. P ............ 805 Chambers, S. L ........... 441 Chapman, J. R....... 42.... 4 Chathaim, W. H ........... 442 Childress, T. J ............ 767 CU istian, Charles ......... 5'8 Clark, George ......... 572 Clark, James E ........... 573 Clark, Joseph A ........... 806 Clark, Peter W ............ 839 Clark, W. E..............b8 Clark, Wm. P ............ 839 Clarke, F. J ............. 4 43 C larke. F. W ............. 806 Clarke; Wm. H ............ 443 Clayton, Frank ............ 573 Clayton, F. L ............ 444 Cl lyton, J. M ............ 57. Clemnents, A. H ............ 69 Clements, C. O ........... 610 Clements, J. 1 1............ 6i10 Clements, J. T .......3..... 5,3 Cofer, Col. M. H .. .... .. 117 Coffey, G. W ............ 441 Cohen, Wm1. M3.839 Conley, P'. C ............. 573 Conway, F. F .............768 Couk, J. H ................ 673 Cook, Samuel.......... 673 Cooke, S. C.......... 574 Coomes, Ben D .......... 807 Cooines, Hillary F ......... 611 Cooper, H. J...... 528 Cottrelll, C. E-. 229 Courtney, J. N ............ 445 Courtney, W. T ........... 445 Cronse. Jacob ............ 611 Cox, George H ...........444 Cox, J. P . .............. 231) Crabtree, Colson ...... 642 Crabtree, Eldred ........ . 642 Crabtree, John ............ 574 Crabtree, Solomon .... ... 840 Crabtree, Wm. ...... 840 Crane, D. F........ ..... 369 Craycroft, Thos. A ........ 118 Cr;gler, T........... 529 Crinnian, L A .............7 ,9 Crow, J. G ............... 7-29 Crumbaugh, S. R ......... 119 Cruae, Jas. B ............ .446 Cruse, Zachariah .......... ,80 Cratcher, B. H ......... . 446 Cummins, J. F ... .... ... 574 Cundiff, B. T . ......... -30 Daly, F. M .529 Daniel, I. C....... 80, Darr, Jacob. 417 Daveiss, Col. Jo. H. 119 t aveiss, Joseph. 6 5 avis, A. A....... 0 Davis, Ainos.731 . Davis, J. H......... 32 DawsOn, BeD;. T.. 448 De'wson, Jas. E .448 Dawson, Rev. W. H. 869 Day, Isaac E...... 5.... S30 Dean, John A . . 121 Deane, Silas M. 449 Dtlker, J. G..........- 449 Deters, H. F. 385 Devylder, J. F... ........ 450 Hagerman, Gilbert ... 678 Douihitt, D A........... 612 Hale, Caleb. . 535 Donthitr, P. E.......... 61' Hale, Josiah . . 231 D.-ury,I. G............. 230 Haley, J. H. . 734 Drury, W. F.............612 Hall, Joseph . . 576 Dugan, John . ............ 7Hill, Miner. . 735 Dauncan, Wm. B........... 860 HallRichard . . 577 Dunlap, Robert .......... 450 Hambleton, Edwin .. 70 Dunn, Wm. W ............. 530 Hamilton, M. W .. 536 Duval, Seth A ............. 675 Harbin, J. A . . 645 Early, Joel H1 ............. 612 Harl, Thos. H . . .7.......... 57 Edwards, E ........ .... 840 Harl,Thos. L .............. 57, Eger, Anthony ............. 51 Harralson, B FH ............ 2J4 English, F. P .............. 4.52 Harralson, R. A . 57 7 Elliott, Wm. W..... 810 Harris, Phocia. 679 Ellis, Geo. F ..... 124 Harrison, J. G .614 illis, Henry .. ... 676 Harrison, S. G .679 Ellis, Rev. J. P..... 531 Harrison, S. Il. 462 Ellis, J. W..... 231 Hathway, John C . 861 Ellis, Luther C. .... 533 Hawes, Ben W., Sr. 862 Ellis, P ,whatan..... .643 Hawes, Ben W., Jr . 862 i Ellis, Walter P..... 643 Haiwes, Richard. 862 Ellis, Wm. T..... 123 Hayden, C. L.578 Erwin, J. H....8. 41 Hayden, Geo. S . 811 Evans, John... ..... . 3 Hayden, H. N .578 Fant, W. H ... .. 808 Hiaden, J. S.. .... 578 Faulkner, James ..... 841 Hayden, W. J .812 Ferrell, J. H ............. 613 Haynes, C. L .............. 536 Ferrel], Michael ........... 643 Haynes. Geo. F .12.5 Field. Capt. Ben . ...... 808 Haynes, R. E .... ........ 462 Field, B. T..... .So Haynes, Samuel........... 680 Fisher, James H ..........4 5: Hazel, Richard H ......... 615 Floyd, Thos. C ............534 Hazel, Thos. E ............ 615 Foote, Edwin S ........... 454 Hazel, Wm. S ............. 615 I Ford, Dudley .............. 733 Head, B. F ............... 645 Ford, Joshil t G . . 198 Head, Elisba .............. 616 Fravser, H. J ............. 452 Head, Henry R ...... 536 Frederick. J. C .............45:3 Head, James A ...... 812 Frey, Robert . ............. 45:3 Head, James F ..5 78 Falkersn, F. K. . .574 Head, John . ........... 579 Fuqua, J. A ........... . 454 Head, Tnios. B ....... ..... 616 Gabel, Henry M1 .. 45 Head, Wm. B . ............ 616 Galloway. Z . ............. 575 lleavrin, J. P .............. 234 Gans, Henry C ............ 455 Hebard, A . ............... 7.0 Gatewood, Griffin .........6 13 Helm, B. H . ........2..... 126 Gaw, J hn . . ..y 76H elinke, Adolph. 463 Gill, Reuben . ............. 7.34 Hemingway, Geo. 31. 841 Gilmore, W. S . ............ 789 Hennig, C. E . ............57 9 (lipe, Frederick ..... 456 Henning, H. E .617 Glenn, David R ............ 57,5 Henning, J. A ............. 617 Glenn, Duke .............. G7s Hewlett, Win. T ........... 735 Glenn, Hiram 76........... ,Hickman J. B ..H....... 463 Glenn, Logan R .......... 576 1 lickman W. A .......... 2: Glenn, John ..............7. 576 Higdon, h'bas. N .....7.... 617 (4lenn, Walker... iigdoJohn A.........1S Glenn, Wm. L............. 89 Higdon, R . . 6. 46 Goode, Robert F 81..gd....id ch......... H.18 Goodwin, Ed............. 841 Higgin, 3. T . 464 Gordon, Chas. W .......... 457Hill. Jacob 579 Gordon, Jackson 677.......... 6771ill, John R 81- Gore, Joseph NV 6........... 614 i ll, William 812 Graham, H. C.......... 810 1 1liks, A. S. ... 770 Graves, M. D .......... 4;58 Hindmarch, Mathew . fi46 Graves, P. S.......... 861fl Hite, Benonla. 681 Graves, T. H. .... 861 Rite, J. F.... ........ 5:i7 Gray,J. . . 21 Hite,J.J ............... 681 Gray, Lynch ..458 Hite Thos. T . 692 Gregory, Wim. W......... 811 Hoard, Marcus D 162 Griffith, Clinton... .. 868 Hoardi. Wmi. E. 863 Griffith, D. M ............. 459 Hobbel Burr H . . 235 Griffith, J. T . ............ 454 Hodgkins, 3. H 4i65 Griffith, Wm. R. .. 124 1 Holmes, Col. J. M .735 Guenther, Wm. H ......... 459 Holmes, Wm. E. .. 235 Gnllett.Wni. M .......Win.. 64 4 Ho rn, Wm. T. S3 Gunther, F. T............ 460 Howard A. G . . 53 Gathrie, .1lrs. B. L . ....... 644 Howard, F. M .. . 84 Gutapfel, Jacob .. 461i1 oward, Fred. . 7.1 WHesley, P. J 3. .......... . :30 Howard, Henry 737 Hafner John .. 614 j Howard,.l ohnH.a.lohn. 739- Hagan, li. J . . 614. Howard, J. W........ . 7.39 Hagan, Geo. W .......... 5351 Howard, S. B .............. 7.38 Hager, Cbas. J......... 461 Howard. S. D . 740 Hager, H. F. . 64.t Howard, Thos. J..... 613 Hager, J. F . ......... 869 Hunter, H. J .............. 740 CONTENTS. Husk, George ... 593 Husk, Wm. J.............. 619 Iglehart. John L ......... 842 Jackson, C. D .... .......12 Jackson, Christopher. - 684 Jackson, Robert H ..... 741 Jamison, J. A ............. 646 Johnson, Jas. L ........... 17 Johnson, Poilip T .. .... 236 Johnson, W. H ........ 465 Johnson, Wm. H .......... 741 Jolly, (Geo. W ............ 128 Jones, D. D . 814 Jones, Milton E ........... 539 Jones, Reuben S ....... .. 685 Jones, Wm. H ............ 646 Jones, Wm. J ............ 646 Jonee, Wm. J ...........814 Karn, Jasper B ............ 129 Karn, Wm. H. 540 Kellers, J. C ............ 647 Kelley, Hillery ............ 647 Kelly, Joseph ......... 863 Kennady, S.D ......... 466 Kennedy, John C.... 842 Kerrick, George W ........ 843 Kilgore W. B ............466 Kimbley, J. P ............ 286 King, Thos. ....6.......8.3S6 Kirk, Jas. A ....... ..... 687 Kirk, John L .............. 681, Kirk, W. R ....... 814 Knott, Jas. I. 619 Knott, Leonard. 619 Knox, Wm. R . 540 Kollenberg, Geo. A. 467 Krugar, Wm. J. . 72 Lacklin, Elijah ......... 688 Lacklin, Fielden .. .... 689 Lacklin, Philip T. 689 Lambert, 1. W. ...... 619 Lanmbert, J. R 579 Laimping, Thos. E. 237 Lancaster, RJ . . 647 Lancaeter N.M. 648 Lanham, 4. W . 69U Lashbrook, Achilles 690 Laslibrook, J. W. fl69 Lashbrook, Norris. t 692 Lasihbrook, S. B. 742 Lea, W. T . 648 Lee, David F . ..... .... 643 Lehman, Frank L. 620 Lehrbhrg, C. K. 468 Leibfried, Jacob. 815 Lewis, R. t. 693 Linton, Jas P.. 80 Litley. (:eo. W ............ 541 Little, Lucius3 P ........... 129 Lloyd, T. W.. 742 Lloyd, Thoe. H ............ I542 Lockhart, C. J ............. 238 Lockhart, S. M ............. 238 Long, Jas. B. ............. 815 Long, S W.468 Lossie, Wm. Co ......... 469 Lostutter, Wm ........... 815 Lucas, W. J .69 Lnmpkin, Lee ............. 2"1 Lyddane. J. A 580 Madducx, Tapley..... 695 ,Magruder, D. A 743 Marshall, S. G.... ... I44 Mlarl , JAS. W ........ .869 Martin, I. T ............. 816 MartiD, Thos. D ......6..... 95 Martin, Wm . ........... 816 IMattingly, Geo. D ....... . 470 Mattinely J. C 4,1 ,MattinDly, M. H ........... 6130 M attiiigly,M4 P ............ 471 Mlattingly M. S ........... 133 May, Almarian .............44 May, James H..... . .. 543 May, James M............ May, Junius............... May, Richard.............. May, William............. M cAtee, A. J ............. McAtee, T. W............. McBride, Wm............. McCain, Alfred............ McCain, Henry H ......... McCarty, James W. IMcCarty, John N......... McCarty, Justin........... McCarty, W. W........... McCormick, B3. S .......... McCormick, Enos......... McCormick, Francis ...... McCormick, J. K ........ McCreery, Hon. T. C...... McDaniel, Chrysostum.r.. McDaniel, H. nry.......... McDaniel, John.......... McDaniel, John H........ McDaniel, Reason........ McDonald, John........ McFarland, B, W.......... McFarland, Hon. J. ll..... McGehee, M F........... McHenry, J. H, Sr......... McHenry, J. Hl., Jr........ McJohnson, R. P......... McLean, L. A.............. Mc PherFou, W. Y ......... Medcalf, Wm. P......... Me.rimee, R. A........... Miller, A B .............. Miller, Jas C .............. Miller, John A ............ Miller, P-J ............... Miller, Robert............. Miller, W. F ............ Miller, Wm. L ............ .Millett. E. P............ Mills, Wm. H ............ Milne, Colin R ............ Milton, James ............. M .l 1,. u .A Mobberly, C. I ............. Mobberly, Win. P......... Monarch, D. A ............ Monar' h, M. l ........... Monarch, Richnrd......... Monarch. Thomas......... Monarch, Tr. J ............ Monarch, W. 11.......... Montgomery, Athanane.... 7, oore, J. Z................ Moore, R. G. Moore, Wm. H. Moormnan, John... . Moredock, J. L...... Moreland, Reuben ...... Alorgan. Gleo. W. Morris, H. H1............. Mdorrisoo, J..1........ Moseley, Isaac F ...... Moseley, J. B ........ .... Moseley, J. J ............. Moseley, J. W ............. Moseley, Merit C........ Muflitt, Wm ............. Mullican, J. S. ....... Munday, J. A .......... Murphy, C. M............. Nawz, (C. G................ Neel, Geo. W. Nelson, Mrs. E. 4. N eshitt, J H.............. Newman, N. M ........... Newson Wm. F ......... Newton, tCol . Wm........ Noel, Charles T ........... Nunn, Robert B........... 620 745 746 '45 746 471 621 581 581 544 .581 545 648 747 816 695 817 133 621 621 621 622 62:2 619 581 55 698 134 115 472 649 472 622 472 699 473 473 623 816 545 475 864 476 546 649 476 844 ,48 00 623 8714 477 817 4; 8 819 819 186 790 478 4; 61 .91 6.50 582 819 820 844 844 650 .4i6 845 623 7i1 2.03 815 821 547 651 379 772 624 821 701 479 O'Bryan, P. E ............ ,37 O'Bryan, J. R ............ 624 O'Flynn, Eugene ....... 748 Ogt en, Marcus L ... 480 Ogden, M. L.1 138 Orsburn, H. K. 239 Oreburn. V. 239 Osborne, Dabney T. 582 Osborne, J. R . ..... .. 481 Osborne, s. W ............ 651 Owen, Chas. A .. ......... 748 Owen, Daniel ........ .... 716 Owen, Wm. T ............. 128 Palmer, Thomas .......... 48-2 Parristh, James H . ..... . 483 Pate, M. C ................. b47 Pate. Wim. T .............. 822 Patrick, Robert .... ... 6r,1 Patterson. James M .. . 2 Payne, (Geo D ............. 22 Payne, J. L. .. 65 Payne, J. T...... 5........ 65 Payne, P. F.. 823 Payne, S. T.. 625 Payne, S. W... . . t Payne, Thes. 1H.3.. B3 Pendlkton, E. C.. 773 Perkinis, W'in. H.. 1.29 Perry, John W.. 652 Pettit, Thomas S.. Ito9 Pierce, I. N... . , Porter, John W ........... 483 Pottinger, R. B. . 483 Pottincer, Wm... 824 PowelS, J. U.. 1'9 Priest C. R. . .4 Purcebl, F. P... 648 Piirdy, W. -E. . 775 Queen, J. F. . 652 Ragsdale, Robert.. 548 Ramsey, Ben F.. 549 Ray, Jame s... .702 Read. Philander. .. 749 Reinhard', J. W. . 652 Reinbardt, W. F. and Bros. 484 Reno, Lawson ............. 484 Re)nolds, J. W. 58' j Reynolds, T ..........l.5S3 Rhores, Geo. S ............ 651 Rhodes, Gc. W ....... .. 550 Richardson,. B .... L702 Riddle, Wooden ........... 864 IRiubtxeYer. Loui8 ........6 kg. Ritcheyv, JeflersOn ......... 626 Robertf. C. C .............. 814 Rtobets, feo ..... ...... 864 Rooberts, Hlnry B ......... 226 Robei Lts, .John ............. 926 Robertson, D. C .......... 846 ! Roby. (eo. W ............. fi"6 Rock, 2e,,. P. M. J .........6 .7 Rodman, J. 11 ............. - 5 y Rodman, It. M ....8........3.: 3 IRodman, W. B ............ i84 Rosc, M-.-H .................792 IRosenthal, Berahardt..... 485 Rors, John C . ........... 485 Rothchild, Joseph .... .... 486 jRowland. G. B ....... ....... 627 IRabhy, C. M ................. 846 Rndd, Jlmes C. 486 Rudy, Chnrles.0 4 l Pustell, James W ............. 7.'0 iRtussell, John B ......... 70.. l Russell. J. D .............. 865 Ryon, P. P ................ 751 Sands, Merit .............. 653 Sawyer. James ............ 4S8 Schenk, Nelson B ......... 885 Schwah, Eugene .......... 48S Schweikarth, Henry....... 584 Scobee, Rev. Joseph S .... 4F9 Scott, H. W ............... 140 Seiber, John A ............ 239 CONTENTS. Shadwick, Ben j ........... 865 Shaw, Emerson ... 93 Shobe, Andrew ............ 824 Shoemaker, Wm. W ..... 703 Short, William ........... 816 Shortell, J. D ............ 140 Shouee, James .......... 627 Shultz, Charles ............ 65:3 Simms, Wm .... .......... 585 Sims, Jamea M .. 581 Skillman, Gilbert. 7.51 Slack, P.. W .141 Slaughter, Joseph W . 490 Smeathers Harold. 866 Smith, George.. . 490 Smith, Jacob .491 Smith, James E. f585 Smith, John H ........ ... 491 Smith, Joseph H. 627 Smith, Nicholas . 492 Smith, Wills . 6t. . 5,3 SmttL, W.T. 585 Solomon, J. B .373 Sosh, J. N ......... . ,54 Speak, Lewis.. . 6'28 Spencer, Geo. W . 629 Spilman, Wim. N ..........-6 apringifelld. Wmn. J . 240 Stevens, George. 551 Stiunett, Jame- L 552 Stirman, M. G .141 Stirman, W. D. 492 Stofkton, Joseph P . 55-2 Stone, Wim. A . 5l Stone, Wrn. S. . 654 Stout, Joseph H ........... 44B3 Stuart, James ... ........ 141 Stnart, W. A .............1 44 Sweeney, Ion. Wm. N... 144 Talbitt, Geo. W. 752 Tatnner, Benjamin . T.773 Taylor, E. P. and R. RI.... 145 Taylor, John . ........5.... 8-' Taylor, J. ll ............... 493i Tayl or,-J. T ............... 7941 Taylor, Joseph ..... 704 Taylor B .i... .... 5861 Taylor, Thos. R .. .. 7(;5 Taylor, Wm. F .... 706. Taylor, Capt. Wm.. 7T06 Tennis, Mrs. Christina .... 655 Terrell, Joshua C ......... 494 Tbarp, James ...K....... 494 Thixton, Charles G ....... 495 Thixton, John.... 49-5 Thomas, Charles W ........ 754 Thomas, Joseph ....... ... 146 Thompson, C. F .... ...... 586 Thompson,-J. A ...... .... 586 Thompson, J. T ............ r Thompson, Leo ........ Thompson, M. B ..........7.93 Thompson, W. R .......... 587 Thomson, Geo. N. . 496 Thruston, Alfred ......... 866i Tichenor, Manley B ....... 825 Toddd, Beverly H ....... .. 496 Todd, ............... 240 Todd, Col. S. 151 Todd, . P.154 Tompkinzs, A. C ........... 496 Tong, Oscar ............... 656 'Price, 0. S . . 794 Triplett, Geo. V ....... 205. Triiplett, Geo. W ........... 15t Triplett, Phil .............. 7 1 T Triplett, J. H ... .......... 825 Triplett, J. H., Jr... 497 Trroutmen, J. P........... 499 Trmnmmell, Josiah ......... 499 Turner. J. R1.... ........ 7541 Tirrnham, Josephus .......9 l6 Tyler, W. B.... ........ 600, Vanover, James .U ........ 8-i Vanover, James, Jr ...... 847 VanoverJeptlli.....,. 847 Vatnover, John S ........ 847 Vanover, W. W ............ 848 Vowells, C. W ............ 587 Vowels, Charles. 826i Walden, S.V ..00 Walker, Jas. R. 7.94 Walker, ',\ m. T ..... ..... 867 Wall, Joseph B ............ 587 Waltrip. 0. R ......... I 5`8 Wldtrip, John...... 588 Wandlienff, John ........... 501 Ward. Walter . 5 53 Ware, Elins M .......... 826 Ware. James W. 708 Warren, John 0. 588 Wathen, Henry B. 628 ' atkins, P. J.. 502 Watkins, S. S ............. 242 Wayne, M. N .............. 589 Webber, Simeon D ........ 867 Weber, Martin H .......... 5 2 Weikel, Michael ...........6 56. Weill, Ernec-t ............. 503 Weir, James...... . . 207 Weir, John G ............. 503 Welden, James M. .. . 589 Wells, Emmet.. ... 887 Wells, Isham............ 554 Wells, J. G....... .756 Wheeler, William B ......5. 89 Whitehead, J. t .......... 504 Wile, Sol. ind Sons ....... 504 Wilhite, G. A. R .......... 708 Wilhite, John H ........ .755 Wilkerson, C. B ......... 826 Wilkinson, Edward ....... '.95 Wilkinson, N. II .......... 243 Williams, Geo. W ......... 147 Williams, Jeptha ..... . ... 755 Williams, John J. ..... 827 Williams, R. T ........ 709 Williams, Samuel ...... ....590 Wilikie, P. 0 .............. 505 Wilson, P. D ............. 629 Winkler, Joseph F. 629 Winkler, William ......... 63'0 Winstea4, Mrs. Emily ..... 795 Winston J. M ............. 656 Wolf. Aaron ............. 505 WVollmon, J. N .......... 709 Wood, A. C .............. 244 Woodruff, Henry B .... .. 199 Woodson. W. C..... 203 Wootten R. I ............62 8', Wright, John....... 56 Yaaer, Joel F ............. i506 Tarboiglh, F. R ........... 657 Yaiaman. Geo. 11 ... ...... 149 Yeiser, Philip ...........506 Yeizer, A. R .............. 710 Teizer. D. E .............. 7r)6 Yewell, B. F ....... ...... 711 Znlauf, Philip R ........... b07 Warren, john 588 Watheu, Henry 628 'A atkins, P. J.. 502 Watkins, S. S ............. 242 Wayne, M. N .............. 589 Webber, Simeon D ........ 867 Weber, Martin H .......... 512 Weikel, Michael ........... 656, Will, Erriec-t ............. 603 Weir. James ...... I I "I 11 1 207 Weir, John G ............. 503 WeldeD, James X ......... 589 Wells, Emmet....... 867 Wells, Isham ............. .554 WellsJ. G ....... ..... .. 756 Wheeler, William B ....... 689 Whitehead, J. M .......... 604 Wile, Sol. iud Sons ....... 6(4 Wilhite, G. A. R .......... 708 Wilhite, John H ........ .755 Wilkerson, C. B ......... 8ffi Wilkinson, Edward ....... 1,95 Wilkinson, N. 11 .......... 243 Williams, Geo. W ......... 147 Williams, Jeptha ..... .... 755 Williams, John J . ..... 827 Williams, R. T ........ 709 Wi Iliams, Samuel ...... :': 540 W111kie, P. 0 .............. 505 Imou, P. D ............. 629 Winkler, Jmeph 629 Winkler, William ......... 6:10 Winstea(j, Mr,-. Emily ..... 795 Winston J. M ............. 656 Wolf, Aaron ............. 505 'Vollmon, J. N .......... 709 Wood, A. C ............... 244 Woodruff, Henry B .... .. 199 Woodsou. W. C..... 203 Wootlen R. I ............ 8 -' I, WrightJobn....... 5 Yaar, Joel F ............. I506 Tarbougli, F. R ........... 657 Yc amari, Geo. 11 ... ...... 149 Yeier, Philip .......... .506 YelZer, A. R .............. 710 Yeiz,-i-. D . E ............... 7r-,6 Yewell, B. F ....... ...... 711 Znlauf, Philip R ........... 607 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. Previous to the exploration by the Anglo-Saxon race about the middle of the eighteenth century, Kentucky formed a vast hunting ground upon which the savage tribes of the South and of thle North killed the elk and buffalo, and occasionally encountered each other in bloody conflict. No permanent settlements existed within its borders. Its dnrk forests and cane thickets separated the Chero- kees, Creeks and Catawbas of the South from the hostile tribes of Shawnees, Delawares and Wyandots of the North. A-l ot these tribes encountered the pioneer, and fiercely disputed the settle- ment of the country. It is certain, however, that these were not the original occupants of the country, as ancient monuments of deep interest speak, in language not to be mistaken, of a race of men who preceded the rude tribes encountered by Boone and Finley. The origin, language and history of these men are buried in darkness which may never be dispelled; but 'the scanty vestiges which they have left behind them enable us to affirm. hat they far surpassed the rude tribes which succeeded them, in acts and civilization. They had worked the copper mines of the West, and were in possession of copper tools for working in wood and stone. Their large fortifications, constr acted of solid in asonrv, and artificial]y contrived for defense, show that they had foes to resist, and that they had made some progress in the military art. How long they occupied the country, whence they came, and whither they have gone, no one is able to diecide; but certain it is, that the fortifications and cemeteries which have been examined are certainly more than 7800 years old, but how munch older is only a matter of conjecture. Passing over the visits to different portions of Kentucky in 1758, and again in 1767, the company, headed by Daniel Boone in 1769, and by KDOx in 1770, may be regarded as the earliest visits worthy of particular attention. Boone's party remained in the State two years, and the party led by Colonel James Knox came one year later and remained about the same time; the two parties never met. 2 (17) HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. The bounty in lands which had been given to the Virginia troops who had served throughout the old French war, were to be located upon the Western waters, and within less than two years after the return of Boone and Knox from their long hunting excursion, surveyors were sent out to locate these lands upon the Ohio River. In 1773 Captain Thomas Bullitt led a party of surveyors down the Ohio to the Falls,- where a camp was con- structed to protect them from the Indians. Three brothers from Virginia, named McAfee, accompanied him to the mouth of the Kentucky River. In 1775 other parties of surveyors and hunters followed, and during this same year James Harrod erected a log cabin upon the spot where Harrodsburg now stands, which rapidly grew into a station, and is doubtless the oldest in Kentucky. In the spring of 177T the fort, afterward called Boonesboro, was constructed, and live months from that time Boone's wife and daughters joined him and resided in the fort,-the first white women that ever stood upon the banks of the Kentucky River. In 1, 75 the renowned pioneer, Simon Kenton, erected a log cabin, and raised a crop of corn near the spot where the town of Washington now stands. In the spring of 1776 Colonel Benljamin Logan brought his wife and family to Logan's Fort, about one mile west of the present town of Stanford, in Lincoln County. During this year Colonel George Rogers Clark for the first time made his ap- pearance in Kentucky. Ile visited different stations, but made no location. In the winter of 1776 Kentucky was formed into a county by the Legislature of Virginia, and thus became entitled to a separate County Court, justices of the peace, sheriff, constables, coroner, and militia officers. In the spring of 1777 the Court of Quarter Sessions held its first sitting at Harrodsburg, attended by the sheriff of the county and its Clerk, Levi Todd. The first court of Kentucky was composed of John Todd, John Floyd, Benjamin Logan, John Bowman, and Richard Callowal The year 1778 was rendered memorable by two great military events. . One was the invasion of the country by an ariny rof Indians and Canadians under the command of Captain Du Quesne, a Canadian officer, which proved unsuccessful, and the other was the brilliant expedition of Colonel George Rogers Clark aainst the English posts at Vincennes and Kaskaskia. The year 1779 was marked by three events. About the first of April a solitary block house was erected by Robert Patterson upon 18 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. the spot where the city of Lexington now stands; the unfortunate expedition of Colonel Bowman against the Indian town of Chilli- cothe was undertaken and carried out, which resulted in total fail- ure; and the celebrated land law of Kentucky was passed by the Kentucky Legislature. This law was well intended, and the settle- mient and pre-emption features were just and liberal. The defect was the neglect of Virginia to provide for the general survey ot the country at the expense of the Government, and its subdivisions into whole, half, and quarter sections, as is now done by the United States. The year 1780 was distinguished by the vast number of emi- grants who crowded to Kentucky for the purpose of locating land warrants. Indian hostility was proportionably active, and a for- midable expedition, consisting of Indians and English, under Colonel Bird, threatened Kentucky with destruction; and for the first time cannon were employed against the stockade forts of Kentucky. In November of this year Kentucky was divided into three counties, to which the names of Fayette; Jefferson and Lin- coln were given. They had now three County Courts, three Courts of Common Law and Chancery Jurisdiction, and a host of magistrates and constables. No court, capable of trying capital offenses, existed nearer than Richmond. The year 1781 was distinguished by a very large immigration, by prodigious activity in land speculation, and by the frequency of Indian inroads in small parties. In May a party of Wyandots invaded Kentucky, and committed shocking depredations in the neighborhood of Estill's Station. Captain Estill collected a party of equal force and pursued them rapidly; but he was totally over- powered by the Indians, and himself and nearly all his officers were killed. A party of Wyandots, consisting of twenty men, encountered Captain Holder, at the head of seventeen Kentuckians, and de- feated him with loss. But these small parties were the mere pattering drops of hail which preceded the tempest. In the month of August an army of 500 Indian warriors, composed of detachments from all the Northwestern tribes, traversed the northern part of Kentucky, and appeared before Bryan's Station very unexpectedly. The gar- rison took prompt measures to repel the enemy. The alarm was given to neighboring stations, while those who remained gave a bloody repulse to the only assault which the Indians ventured to 1'3 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. makeupon the fort. The enemy -became discouraged, and re - treated to the Lower Blue Lick. By noon the next day 160 men had assembled at Bryan's Station, eager to encounter the invad- ers. Colonels Todd, Trigg, and Daniel Boone, Majors Harlan, McBride and Levi Todd, Captains Bulger and Gordon, with forty- five other commissioned officers, including the celebrated McGary, assembled in council and hastily determined to pursue the enemy without waiting for Colonel Logan, who was known to be collect- ing a strong force at Lincoln, and who might be expected to join themn in twenty-four hours. The pursuit was keen and bloody, the Indians coming out victorious. Todd, Trigg, Harlan, McBride, Bulger and Gordon were killed on the field of battle. Sixty offi- cers and men were killed, and seven prisoners were taken. The number of wounded was never ascertained. Some of the fugitives returned to Bryan's Station the night after the battle, and were there met by Colonel Logan at the head of 450 inen, who continued his march to the battle-ground. The bodies of the dead were col- lected and interred, and, having satisfied himself that the Indians had crossed the Ohio, he returned to Bryan's Station and disbanded his troops. It was an established custom in Kentucky at that time never to suffer an Indian invasion to go unpunished, but to retaliate upon their villages and corn-fields the havoc which their own settle- ments had experienced. Colonel George Rogers Clark led his regiment of State troops against the Indian villages in Ohio, and invited the militia of Kentucky to join him. One thousand rifle- myen responded to the call, and rendezvoused at the month of the Licking, under the command of Clark. They penetrated into the heart of the Indian country, and reduced their towns to ashes, and laid waste the whole country with unsparing severity. Iav- ing completely destroyed everything within their reach, the de- tachment returned to Kentucky. In the spring of 1783 Kentucky was erected into a district, and a Court of Criminal as well as Civil Jurisdiction was formed. The court held its first session in Harrodsburg in the spring of 1783, andfwas opened by John Floyd and Samuel McDowell, as Judges, John May, Clerk, and Walker Daniel, Prosecuting Attorney. Seventeen culprits were presented by the grand jury. During the summer a log court-house and jail of '- hewed or sawed logs nine inches thick" was erected on the spot where Danville now stands. Peace followed in 1783, and Indian hostilities were for a time 20 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. suspended. In the summer of 1784, some depredations were com- mitted by the Indians upon the southern frontier, and Colonel Ben- jamin Logan received intelligence that a serious invasion was contemplated. Upon an examination of the laws then in existence, the most eminent lawyers decided that no expedition could lawfully and effectually he carried out against the Indian tribes; the power of impressment had ceased with the war, and in a state of peace could not legally be exercised. There was no power known to the law capable of calling forth the resources of the country, however imminent the danger; all of their legislation came from Richmond, distant many hundred miles, and separated from Kentucky bv desert mountains and interminable forests traversed by roving tribes of Indians. The necessity of a government independent of Virginia was deeply and almost unanimously felt. Several conventions were held, numerous addresses were sent to the Virginia Legislature, before any action was taken up on the subject. It was not Until severallyears of hard labor, indomitable perseverance and determined efforts upon the part of Kentucky's noble leaders that she was at last separated fromt her parent State and admitted into the Union. In December, 1790, President Washington. strongly recommended her admission to Congress, and on the 4th of February, 1791, an act for that purpose had passed both Houses and received the signature of the President. In April, 1791, a convention assembled at Danville and formed the first Constitution of Kentucky. This Constitution abandoned the aristocratic features of Virginia so far as representation by counties was concerned, and established onuil76es as the basis. Suffrage was universal, and sheriffs were elected triennially bv time people. The Executive, Senate and Judiciary were entirelyv removed from the direct control of the people.- The Governor was chosen by electors, who were elected by the people for that purpose every fourth year. The members of the Senate were appointed by the same electoral college which chose the President, and might be selected indifferently from any part of the State. The Judiciary were appointed as at present, and held their offices daring good behavior. The Supreme Court, however, had original and final jurisdiction in all land cases. The Constitution was adopted and the officers elected in May, 1792. Isaac Shelby, a brave officer who had served in the Revolutionary war, was elected Governor; Alexander Bullitt was chosen Speaker of the Senate, and Robert Breckenridge, of the House of Representatives; James Brown was 21 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. the first Secretary of State, and George Nicholas the first Attorney General. John Brown and John Edwards were elected, by joint ballot, Senators to Congress; Frankfort was fixed upon as the future seat of Government. During its first session, the Legislature was engaged in organizing the Government. Acts passed estab- lishing the Supreme Court, County Court and Court of Justice. Taxes were imposed upon land, cattle, carriages, billiard tables, ordinary licenses and retail stores. In the meantime Indian depredations were incessant, and Gen- eral Washington, to the infinite distress of Kentucky, persevered in the employment of a regular force in the Northwest instead of mounted militia. St. Clair was superseded and General Wayne became his successor. A regular force aided by militia was again organized, and a final effort made to crush the hostile tribes. Indian murders increased; boats were intercepted at every point on the Ohio, from the mouth of the Kanawha to Louisville, and in some cases their crews murdered. Stations upon the frontiers were boldly attacked and were kept perpetually on the alert. Yet the President was compelled by public opinion in the East to make another effort for peace with these enraged tribes, and all hostility from Kentucky was strictly forbidden. But these efforts were as fruitless as all former ones had proven to be, and in the summer of 1793 preparations for another camn- paign against the Indians was urged by the President. A powverful regular force had been concentrated at Cincinnati, and a reqqui- sition on Governor Shelby was made for 1,000 mounted riflemen. None would volunteer, and a draft was resorted to. In the following spring 1,500 volunteers took the field with alacrity, under the command of General Scott, and joined the regu- lar force under Wayne, That intrepid commander marched into the heart of the hostile country, and on the 20th of August at- tacked them in a formidable position near the rapids of the Miami. A bloody battle was fought, in which the enemy was completely routed. Never was victory more complete. This brilliant suc- cess was followed by the most decisive results. A treaty was made with the hostile tribes, which was observed until the war of 1812. In October, 1795, a treaty with Spain was concluded, by which the right to navigate the Mississippi to the ocean was conceded to the United States, together with a right of deposit at New Orleans, which embraced all that Kentucky desired. 22 HIST6RY OF KENTUCKY. In 1802 Kentucky, in common with the whole Western country, was thrown into a ferment by the suspension of the American right of deposit at New Orleans, which had been guaranteed for three years, with the further provision, that at the end of three years,, should the right of this deposit be withheld, some other place should be afforded near the mouth of that river. The right was refused by Morales, the Spanish Intendant, and no equivalent place of deposit was granted. The excitement increased when it was understood that Louisiana had been ceded to France, and that this important point was held by Napoleon, then First Consul of the republic. A motion was made in the Senate of the United States to authorize President Jefferson to take and hold possession of New Orleans; but milder counsels prevailed, and Mir. Monroe was dispatched to France in order to arrange this difficulty with the Consul. The American Minister expected to negotiate for a place of deposit at the mouth of the river, and was informed that for the trifling sum of 16,000,000 francs hle could purchase a magnificent empire. No time was lost in closing this extraordinary sale; and thus the first great annexation of territory to the United States was accomplished. No circumstances of domestic interest claim the attention of the historian, except the trial of Aaron Burr for treason (a brief out- line of which is given in the biograplhy of Jo Daveiss, in the chap- ter entitled "Sketches of Public Men"), until the war which broke out between the United States and Great Britain in 1812. The general history of that war belongs to the history of the U1nited States, but no history of Kentucky, however brief and general, can pass unnoticed those stirring incidents in the -Northwest and South- west, in which Kentucky acted so prominent a part. The victory gained by,,the Americans at the battle of Tippe- canoe, which took place in Indiana the year previous, insured peace only a short time, as the schemes of the British had so far ripened as to compel the United States to again declare war against them. This war was declared June 18, 1812. The Indians iimme- diately commenced to commit depradations, and during the sumn- mer of 1813 several points alone the lake region succumbed to the British. The first events of the war, upon land, were such as might naturally be expected from a nation essentially pacific, mercantile and agricultural. An invasion of Upper Canada by Hull resulted in the surrender of his army, and the loss of the whole Territory of 23 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. Michigan. An attempt to invade Canada upon the Niagara fron- tier resulted in a total failure, attended with some disgrace and an immense clamor. By the loss of Michigan, all American control over the numerous tribes of Indians of the Northwest was lost, and they poured down from the great lakes upon our extended frontier in great numbers. The war spirit in Kentucky blazed forth with unprecedented vigor. Seven thousand volunteers at once offered their services to the Government, and 1,500 were on the march to Detroit, when the intelligence of Hull's surrender induced them to halt. This disastrous news was received with a burst of in- dignant fury, such as no event ever excited in Kentucky. The mili- tary ardor of the men seemed rather increased than diminished, and a call of the Gov, ernor for 1,500 volunteers, to march against the Indian villages of Northern Illinois, was answered by more than 2,000 volunteers, who assembled at Louisville under General Hopkins, and marched into the Indian country, until their provis- ions became scarce, and their ardor had become cooled by the protracted hardships they had endured, when, without having en- countered the enemy, they suddenly abandoned their General and returned home in defiance of all remonstrances. The remainder of the Kentucky volunteers were placed under the orders of Gen- eral Harrison. the Governor of Indiana Territory, and afterward elected to the Presidency. This gentleman had fought many successful battles. and the last act of Governor Scott's administra- tion was to confer upon him the rank of Mlajor-General in the Ken- tucky militia, and shortly after the same rank was given him by the President, in the regular service, with the chief command in the Northwest. Tile plan of the camp)aign, as laid at Washington City, was to assemble under the General the militia of Ohio, Kentucky, Vir- ginia and Pennsylvania, with such regular troops as could be raised, to retake Detroit, overawe the Northwestern tribes, and conquer Upper Canada. The Secretary of War evidently regarded this as a very simple undertaking, and the autumn and winter of 1812-'13 was spent in unsuccessful efforts to carry out this plan. The face of the country presented obstacles to the march of an army with necessary baggage and supplies, which the Secretary seemns to have overlooked. The command of the lake was entirely overlooked, and was in the possession of the enemy. Volunteers were furnished in great numbers; they were full of courage and ardently desired to fight. The Government was anxious to furnish HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. everything necessary, but every department was inefficient and inexperienced; blunders, delays and disappointments occurred without number; the ardor of the volunteers expended itself in inglorious struggles with hunger, disease, intolerable hardships and privations, and one of the finest of the Kentucky regiments, commanded by the brave and unfortunate Allen, was with much difficulty restrained from disbanding and returning home. The money expended in efforts to drag provisions and ammunition through a marshy wilderness of nearly 200 miles, would have equi)ped a fleet sufficient to maintain the command of the lake, and the sums wasted in the Quartermaster's department would nearly have furnished transports for a sufficient force to have seized Malden. Bnt the campaign was planned as though the swampy wilderness was a high and healthy region, traversed by the best turnpike roads; and the Secretary seemed ignorant that such a body of water as Lake Erie was in existence. After untold hardships, forced marches through horrible roads, somnetimes upon half rations, Jan. 1 found the army with the left wing at Fort Defiance, under General Winchester, and the right at Upper Sandusky, mnider Harrison. The left wing was composed almost entirely of Kentucky volunteers, and the right Qf militia from Ohio, Pennsylvania and Virginia. The object was to ad- vance to the Rapids, thence to make a march upon Detroit. The left wing took the lead and reached the Rapids on the 10th, where they halted to wait the arrival of General Harrison. On the 14th they received intelligence that two companies of Canadian militia and about 200 Indians were at Frenchtown, on the river Raisin, and iw- stantly a blirning thirst for battle seized both officers and soldiers. Frenchtown was about thirty-eight miles from the Rapids, and only eighteen miles from the British garrison of Malden. The lake was frozen hard, and the march over the ice from Malden could be made in a fexv hours. Tie British could in a short time throw 2,000 men upon Frenchtown, and no support was nearer than Up- per Sandusky, at least five days march distant. Yet a detachment of 990 Kentuckv militia was thrust forward within the very jaws of the British garrison, to strike at this detachment of Indians and Canadians. Colonel Lewis commanded the detachment, and under him were Colonel Allen, Majors Graves and Madison. The battle was fought on the 18th of January. Major Reynolds commanded the British and made a spirited defense, but was driven fromi all his defenses, under a continual charge, for more than two 25 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. miles, with some loss. Prompt intelligence of the action was sent to General Winchester on the night after the battle, and on that even- ing he commenced his march with a reinforcement of 250 regulars under Colonel Wells, leaving 300 men to guard the camp. He reached Frenclhtown the evening of the 20th, and found Colonel Lewis still in possession of the town. On the evening of the 21st General Win- chester learned that a large force was at Malden, apparently preparing for a march-yet he slighted the intelligence, and on that evening gave permission to Colonel Wells to return to the Rapids and fixed his own headquarters nearly a mile from the camp, at the honse of Colo- nel Navarre. At daylight the next morning the camp was suddenlv attacked by about 2,000 British and Indians in two divisions. The British regulars under Proctor advanced against the picketing, andu nder a heavy fire of cannon and musketry. They were re- ceived by the Kentuckians with a torrent of fire which did vast exe- cation. Thirty of the British regulars fell dead within musket-shot of the lines, and three times that number of wounded were borne to the rear. The survivors retreated ill great disorder. In the meantime the Indians and Canadians attacked Wells' regiment, and after a brief action this regiment gave way in confusion. Win- chester came up from his distant quarters in time to witness the flight of the regiment, and strove to rally it within cover of the pick- eting occupied by the Kentuckians, but the panic was so complete that no order could be heard, and these unhappy men fled through a deep snow along the road by which they had advanced from the Rapids thirty-six hours before. They were pursued by four times their number of Indians, and an indiscriminate and almost total butchery ensued. Colonels Allen and Lewis exerted them- selves bravely to rally and re-form the fugitives, but Allen was killed and Lewis taken, as was also the Commander-in-chief. Many Kentuckians united in the effort to rally the fugitives and bring them within the shelter of the picketing, among whom were Wool- folk, Simpson and Meade, all of whom were killed. Scarcely a man of the fugitives escaped death or captivity, and not a Kentuckian who had sallied from the picketings returned. While this deeadful butchery was enacted within sight and hear- ing of both armies, the Kentuckians, now commanded by Majors Madison and Graves, remained within their enclosure, and for four hours kept the enemy at bay. During this time six field pieces played upon them incessantly, and at length their ammuni- tion was reduced to a single keg of cartridges. Proctor then sum- 26 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. moned them, through General Winchester, to surrender, offering honorable conditions and ample protection to the wounded. After considerable parley the terms were accepted, and the whole de. tachment became prisoners of war. The conditions were faithfully kept so far as men and officers were concerned, but inhumanly violated with regard to the wounded. These were left in Frenchtown, without a gutrd, as had been stipulated, under the care of the American surrgeons, attended by a single British officer and a few interpreters. A number of drunken Indians entered the town on the morning after the battle, and the helpless wounded were mur- dered with circumstances of shocking barbarity. The wounded officers, Major Graves, Captains Hart and Hickman, were toma- hawked, and two houses, crowded with wounded officers and men, were set on fire, and consumed, with their helpless inmates. This dreadfil crime is chargeable to the gross negligence, if not willful connivance, of Proctor, and is an indelible stain upon the honor of the British arms. The brave and veteran Shelby had succeeded Scott as Governor of Kentucky, and, upon the intelligence of the dreadful disaster at Raisin, was authorized and requested by the Legislature of Ken- tucky, to take the field in person, at the head of the reinforce- ments which volunteered their services in profusion, to supply the 1places of their countrymen who had fallen, or been led into cap- tivity. Pour regiments instantly tendered their services, comn- man(Ied by the Colonels Dudley, Boswell, Cox and Caldwell, the whole forming a strong brigade under General Clay. A portion of this force was pushed forward by forced marches, to reinforce Harrison, who was now nearly destitute of troops (the term of service having expired), and was lying at the Rapids, exposed to a coup de. gnain from the enemy, who lay within striking distance at Malden, and might by a little activity repeat the terrible blow of the Raisin, upon the banks of the Maumee. The war had not lasted six months, there was but one regular British regiment in Upper Canada, and the United States had already lost the whole Territory of Michigan, and instead of taking the offensive, was occupying a weak, defensive position, within her own.territorv, the enemy being strongest upon the point of operation, and having complete command of the lake. During the winter Harrison employed himself in fortifying his position below the Rapids, which was called Camp Meigs, in honor of Governor Meige, of Ohio. On the 12th of April the advanced 27 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. guard of the Kentucky reinforcement reached Camp Meigs, and on the 26th of that month the British flotilla appeared upon the lake at the mouth of the Maumee River. A vast force of Indians, under the celebrated Tecumseh, attended the British army, and cut off communication with the interior. On the 4th of May Gen- eral Clay, with the residue of the Kentucky brigade, had reached Fort Defiance. General Harrison sent orders to Clay to land 800 men upon the northern shore, opposite the fort, to carry the Brit- ish batteries there placed, to spike the cannon, destroy the car- riages, then regain their boats and cross over to the fort. The residue of the brigade was ordered to land upon the southern shore and fight their way through the Indians to the fort. These orders would have been easily executed, had the troops been well drilled, and had the object of Harrison, which was to silence the batteries, been distinctly understood by the officers. These batteries were slightly guarded, and the Indian force was on the opposite side of the river. Clay received the order from Hamilton and directed him to communicate it to Colonel Dudley, who was charged with the execution. Dudley does not seem to have thoroughly understood the object of Harrison, and he did not communicate to his subordinates the precise nature of his orders. The great mass knew nothing more than that they were to fight an enemy on the northern shore, and were totally ignorant that when the cannon were spiked and the carriages destroyed their object was accomplished. They accordingly rushed upon the batteries, and the real object of the expedition was accomplished. A small force of Indians and Canadians, however, showed them- selves upon the skirts of the wood, and opened a strangling fire, which was eagerly returned by the Kentuckians. and the retreat- ing enemy was hotly followed up, in considerable disorder, for nearly two miles. The detachment was dispersed in small parties, no general command was retained over it, and no one seems to have understood that they were to retreat rapidly to their boats as soon as the cannon were spiked. Tile consequences were such as might have been predicted. Proctor came up with thle British force and intercepted their retreat; the Indiaus crossed over in great numbers, and reinforced the retreating party, which had decoyed the Kentuckians into the woods, and the whole detachment, with the exception of about 150 men, was killed or taken. The prison- ers were taken within the walls of the old British fort below under a very slender guard, and while huddled together in this place, 28 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. the Indians amused themselves by shooting and scalping them. This cruel sport continued until it was interrupted by the arrival of Tecumseh at full gallop, who instantly, and with great indig- nation, put a stop to the massacre. On the whole, the 5th of May was disastrous to the American army. The news of the capture of Fort George by General Dear- born, however, alarmed Proctor, and the little effect produced by his fire, together with the large force which had reinforced Harri- son, induced him to abandon the siege and return to Maiden. The force under Proctor, including Indians, was probably 3,200 men! Harrison's force, including Clay's brigade, about 2,500, rank and file, fit for duty. Proctor remained quiet at Malden, organiz- ing an Indian force for a second invasion of Ohio. H-larrison re- mained at Upper Sandusky, engaged in preparing for decisive operations in the fall. The Secretary had now learned the importance of commanding Lake Erie. Lieutenant Perry, of the navy, had been detached from the squadron under command of Chauncey, on Lake Ontario, to superintend the equipment of a fleet on Lake Erie, and take command of it when ready for service. The crisis of the cam- paign arrived, and on the 10th of September the flotilla of Lieu- tenant Perry engaged the British fleet under Captain Barclay, a British officer of great experience, who had fought under Nelson at Trafalgar. The number of men in the respective squadrons was nearly equal. The British vessels carried sixty-three guns, and the Americans fifty-four. The British had six vessels, and the Americans nine. Seven of the American vessels were mere gunboats, most of theim carrying only one gun, and none of them more than three, while the remaining two, the Lawrence and Niagara, carried twenty guns each. A detachment of 150 of the Kentucky volunteers served on board of Perry's fleet as marines, and upon this new element acquitted themselves with the greatest bravery. The action began between eleven and twelve o'clock, with scarcely a breath of air to stir the bosom of the lake. Perry in the Lawrence, accompanied by two of the small vessels, bore down upon the enemy, but was not closely followed by Lieutenant El- liott in the Niagara, and the rest of the small vessels. For two hours Perry remained exposed to the fire of the whole British fleet, by which his vessel was cut to pieces, and tbhee fourths of his crew killed and wounded. Elliott during this time was never 29 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. within less than half a mile of the enemy, and the remainder of the fleet was not nearer than a mile and a half, save the two small vessels that accompanied him. By two o'clock Perry's vessel was totally lisabled, but the rest of the fleet was but little injured. The lake was so smooth that the distant gun-boats, from their long twenty-four and thirty-two pounders, threw their shot with great precision, and had made themselves felt in. the action; but Elliott's brig, which formed so essential a part of the force, had as yet an- noyed the enemy but little, and had fought principally with two twelve-pounders, the only long gulns she had. At two o'clock Perry left the Lawrence under command of her Lieutenant, and in an open boat rowed to the Niagara. Upon Perry's expressing dissatisfaction at the manner in which the gunboats were man- aged, Elliott volunteered to bring them up. He left the Niagara in a boat for that purpose, and passed swiftly down the line, or- dering them to cease firing, and by the combined use of their sweeps and sails, to press forward into close action. Instantly a new impulse was given to the whole line. The well-known signal for close action was now seen flying from the Niagara, and after a delay of fifteen minutes to enable the gun-boats to come up, Perry bore down upon the British line, passed through it, and delivered a raking fire of grape and canister, from both broadsides, at half pistol-shot distance. The dreadful cries from the Queen Charlotte and Lady Provost, which followed this close and murderous discharge, announced the fatal accuracy with which it had been delivered. The gun-boats were now within pis- tol-shot and a tremendous cannonade, accompanied by the shrill, clear notes of many bugles from the English vessels, announced that they expected to be boarded, and were summoning their board- ers to repel the anticipated assault. No boarding, however, was attempted. The sup' rior weight of the American mettle was now telling, in close fight, when the full power of their cannonades was felt, and in fifteen minutes the enemy surrendered, with the excep- tion of two of their smallest vessels which attempted to escape. The attempt proved fruitless, and the whole fleet of the enemy became the prize of the captors. The loss on both sides, owing to the dreadful slaughter on board the Lawrence, was nearly equal. The American loss was twenty-seven killed and ninety-six wounded, considerably more than half of which was sustained by the crew of the Lawrence. This victory, never surpassed in splendor, was decisive of the fate of the campaign. On the 5th of October, Gov- 30 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. ernor Shelby,with 4,000 Kentuckians, reinforced General Harrison, and took part in the brilliant victory of the river Thames, which closed the hostilities in the Northwest. The most brilliant event of the last war was the battle of New Orleans. It created a deep sensation at the time, and the vast political consequences which have resulted from it have engraved it deeply and indelibly Upon the minds of the American people. Twenty-five hundred Kentucky militia under Maajor General John Thomas took part in this great battle. Less thaln one fourth of them were armed, as their arms werelon flat-boats that did not arrive until after the engagement. After the close of the war, the civil history of Kenltucky is memorable by the dreadful monetary derangement which led to the passage of the relief laws, and gave rise to the most embittered and violent conflict of parties which has ever occurred in Kentuckyv. In 1816 George Madison was elected Governor. He died a few months after his election, and Gabriel Slaughter, the Lieutenant- Governor, became Governor unti 1 1820. In the meantime the finateial affairs of the civilized world were in a state of painful 4isorder. The long wars of the French revolution had banished gold and silver from circulation as money, and had substituted an inflated paper currency, by which nomilinal prices were immensely inhanced. At the return of peace, a restoration of specie payments and the return of Europe to industrial pursuits, caused a great fall in the nominal value of commodities, accompanied by bankruptcy upon an enormous scale. In Kentucky the violence of this crisis was enhanced by the charter of forty independent banks, with an aggregate capital of nearly 10,000,000, which were by law per- mitted to redeem their notes with the paper of the Bank of Ken- tucky, instead of specie. These independent banks were chartered at the session of 1817-'18. The Bank of Kentucky had then resumed specie pay- ments, and was in good credit. In the summer of 1818 the State was flooded with tlle paper of these banks. The consequences were such as might have been anticipated. Speculation sprang up in all directions. Large loans were rashly made and as rashly expended. Most of these bubbles exploded within a year, and few were alive at the end of two years. In the meantime the pressure of debt became terrible, and the power to replevy judgments was extended by the Legislature from three to twelve months by an act passed at the session of 1S19-'20. 31 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. During the summer of 1820 the cry for further relief became overwhelming, and vast majorities of both Houses were pledged to some measure which should relieve the debtor from the conse- quences of his rashness. The reign of political quackery was in its glory. General Adair had been elected Governor of Kentucky in 1820, and heartily concurred with the Legislature in the acts passed at the ensuing session. The great cry of the people was for money, and their heaviest complaint was debt. Therefore the Legislature of 1820-'21, chartered the bank called the Bank of the Commonwealth, which was relieved from all danger of suspension, by not being required even to redeem its notes in specie. Its paper was made payable and receivable in the public debts and taxes, and certain lands owned by the State, south of the Tennessee River, were pledged for the final redemption of its notes. Its business was to pour out paper in profusion in order to make money plenty. The creditor was required to receive this bank paper in payment of Lis debt, and if lhe refused to do so, the debtor was authorized to replevy the debt for the space of two years. But these were not the onldy acts of this mad session. They already had one bank, the old Bank of Kentucky, then in good credit, its paper redeem- able in specie, and its stock at par or nearly so. Bv the terms of this charter the Legislature had the power of electing a number of directors, which gave the control of the board. This power was eagerly exercised during this winter. A conserv- ative president and board were turned Out by the Legislature, and a president and board elected who stood pledged before their election to receive the paper of the Bank of the Commonwealth. irpayment of the debts due the Bank of Kentucky. This was intended to sustain the credit of its paper, but the effect was instantly to strike down the value of the stock of the Bank of Kentucky to one half its nominal value, and to entail -upon it an eternal suspension of specie payments. The paper of the new bank sunk rapidly to one half its nominal value, and the creditor had his choice of two evils. One was to receive one half his debt in pay- ment of the whole, and the other was to receive nothing at all for two years. and at the end of that time, to do the best he could,- running the risk of new delays, and of the bankruptcy of his secur- ities. Great was the indignation of the creditor at this wholesale con- fiscation of his property. and society rapidly arranged itself into two parties, called Relief and Anti-Relief. With the first party were 32 f I /- This page in the original text is blank. HISTORY OF KENTL- CKY. the great mass of debtors and some brilliant members of the bar, such as John Rowan, William T. Barry and Solomon P. Sharp. With the Anti-Relief party were ranged nearly all the mercantile class, a vast majority of the better class of farmers. An angry conflict sprang up in the newspapers, upon the stump, in the taverns and highways, which gradually invaded the most private and domestic circles. The question of the power of the Legislature to pass tile act was raised at an early day and was quickly brought before the Circuit Courts. Judge Clark, of Clark County, boldly decided the act un- constitutional, in the first case which caine before him, and the act was carried to the Supreme Court. That high tribunal was then occupied by John Boyle, Chief Justice, and William Owsley and Benjamin Mills, Associate Judges. The question came directly before themn in case of Lapsley vs. Brashear, at the fill term 1823, and they decided that the act of the Legislature was in violation of the Constitution of the United States, and totally void. The clause in the Constitution with which the act conflicted was that which prohibited the States from passing any law imlipairing the obliga- tion of contracts. The opinion created an immense sensation in the State, and the conflict of parties was renewed with redoubled fury. The judiciary, by the Constitution, held their offices during good behavior. Nothing less than two thirds of both Houses could remove them. The canvass of 1824 was conducted with the hope of'obtaining this reslt. General Joseph Desha was the candidate of the Relief party for the office of Governor, and was elected by an overwhelming majority. A vast majority of both Houses wvere ot the Relief party. The three judges were summoned before the Legislative bar, and calmly assigned reasons at length, for their decision, which were replied to by Rowan, Bibb and Barry. A vote was at length taken and the constitutional majority of two thirds could not be obtained. The Relief party then renewed the assault in a formidable direction which had not been foreseen. The majority could not remove the judges by impeachment, because their majority was not two thirds of each House. But they could repeal the act by which the Court of Appeals had been organized, and could pass an act organizing the court anew. A bill to this effect was drawn up, and after an excited and protracted debate, was passed by a large majority in both Houses. The new court was organized at once, which consisted of four 3 33 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. judges. William T. Barry was Chief Justice, and John Trimble, James Haggin and R. H. Davidge were Associate Justices. Francis P. Blair was appointed Clerk, and took forcible possession of the records. The old court, in the meantime, denied the constitutionality of the act, and still continued to sit as a Court of Appeals and decide such cases as came before them. A great majority of the bar of Kentucky reorganized themn as the true court, and brotughlt their causes by appeal before their tribunal. A certain proportion of cases were taken to the new court, and some of the circuit judges obeyed their mandates exclusively, refusing to recognize the old court. This judicial anarchy could not possibly endure. The people were again appealed to by both parties, and the names of Relief and Anti-Relief became merged in the title of New Court and Old Court. The result was the triumph of the Old Court party bya large majority in the popular branch of the Legislature, while the Senate still remained attached to the New Court. In consequence of this difference between the two Houses, the reorganizing act still remained unrepealed. and the canvass of 1826 saw both parties again arrayed in a final struggle for the command of the Senate. The old court party again triumphed, and at the ensuing election the obnoxious act was repealed and the three old judges re-estab- lished. All the acts of the New Court were treated as a nullity. This is one of the most signal triumphs of law and order over the fleeting passions which is recorded in the annals of a free people. The fate of the Bank of the Commonwealth, and the replevin laws connected with it, was sealed with the triumph of the Old Court party. The latter were repealed, and the former was grad- ually extinguished by successive acts of the Legislature, which directed that its paper should be gradually burned instead of being re-issued. In a few years its paper disappeared from circulation, and was replaced by the paper of the United States Bank, of which two branches had been established in Kentucky, one at Louisville and the other at Lexington. It was the policy of the great Jackson party of the United States to destroy this institution entirely, and the re-election of Jackson in 1832 sealed its doom. It became obvious to all that its charter would not be renewed, and the favor- ite policy of that party was to establish State banks throughout the Union to supp y its place. As soon as it became obvious that the charter of the Bank of the United States would not be renewed, the Legislature of Kentucky, 34 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. at its sessiors of 1833-'34, established the Bank of Kentucky, the Northern Bank of Kentucky, and the Bank of Louisville, the first with a capital of 5,006,000, the second with a capital of 3,000,- 000, the third with a capital of 2,000,000. The result of this enormus multiplication of State banks throughout the United States, consequent upon the fall of the Na- tional Bank, was vastly to increase the quantity of paper money afloat, and to stimulate the wildest spirit of speculation. During the years of 1835-36 the history of one State is the history of all. All rushed into the market to borrow money, and eagerly projected plans of railroads, canals, stock-water, navigation and turnpike- roads, far beyond the demand of commerce, and in general wvith- out making any solid provision for the payment of the accruing interest, or reimbursement of the principal. This fabric was too baseless to endure. In the spring of 1837, all the banks of the Union suspended specie payments. Kentucky was then in the midst of a scheme of internal improvement, upon which she was spending about 1,000,000 annually, embracing the construction of turnpike-roads and the improvement of her rivers, and she was eagerly discussing railroad pro(jects on a princely scale. In this state of things the Lecislature of 183T nmet, and legalized the suspension of the banks, refusing to comnpel them to resumne specie payments, and refusing to exact the forfeiture of the charters. Specie disappeared from circulation entirely, and the smaller coin was replaced by paper tickets, issued by cities, towns and individuals, having a local currency, but worthless be- yond the range of their immediate neighborhood. The batiks in the meantime were conducted with prudence and ability. They forebore to press their debtors severely, but cautiously and grad- nally lessened their circulation and increased their specie, until, after a suspension of a little more than one year, they ventured to resume specie paymnent. This resumption was general throughout the United States, and business and speculation again became buoyant. The latter part of 1838 and nearly the whole of 1839 witnessed an activity in business and a fleeting prosperity which somewhat resembled the feverish order of 1835 and 1836. But this seeming prosperity was only transitory. In the autuimnn of 1839 there was a second general suspension of specie payment, with the exception of a few Eastern banks. It became obvious that the mass of debt could not much longer be staved off. 35 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. Bank receipts multiplied in every direction. All public imnprove- ments were suspended, and Kentucky was compelled to add fifty percent to her direct tax or forfeit her integrity. In the latter part of 1841 and in the year 1842, the tempest, so long suspended, burst in full force over Kentckvy. The dockets of her courts groaned uinder the enormous load otiaw-suits, and the most frightfiul sacri- fices of prosperity were incurred by forced sales under execution. The revival of the ancient Relief party again assumed a formidable appearance in the elections of 1842, but was encountered in the Legislature with equal skill and firmness. The specie measures of the Relief party were rejected, but liberal concessions were made to them in other forms, which proved satisfactory to the more ra- tional members, and warded off the f'iv of tile tempest which at first threatened the most mischievous results. The middle term of the Circuit Courts was abolished; the magistrates were com- pelled to hold four terms annually, and forbidden to give judg- ment, save at their regular terms. The existing l)anks were re- quired to issue more paper, and give certain accommodations for a longer time and a regular apportionment. During the years 1843 and 1844 society gradually assumed a more settled and prosperous state. In 1836 Judge Clark was elected Governor; Robert P. Letche in 1840, and Judge William Owsley in 1844. General Har- rison was before the people as a Presidential candidate during the years 1836 and 1840, and was warmly supported by the party in Kentucky whicli successively bore tile name of "Anti-Relief" "Old Court," "National Repu blican" and "Whig." In 1844 Clav was a second time before the people as a candi- date for the Presidency, and was opposed by James K. Polkl of Tennessee. a member of the old Jackson party. Clay was sup- ported as usual in Kentucky, with intense and engrossing ardor, and obtained its electoral vote-by a majority exceeding 9,000. Ile was supported by the Whig party of the Union with a warmnth of personal devotion which 'has seldom been witnessed, and was never surpassed in the annals of populargovernment. The great national issue involved in this election was the annexation of Texas to the United States. Polk was the champion of the party in favor of annexation, and Clay opposed it as tending to involve the coun- try in foreign war and internal discord. The annexation was ac- complished, but the war followed in its train. In May, 1846, began the war with Mexico, which, however, parties in Kentucky differed as to its policy or its justice, so struck 36 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. the popular chord as to enlist 13,700 volunteers, which the Gov- ernor had called for and could accept less than 5,000 men. The war closed triumphantly for the United States in 1848, by the an- nihilation of the Mexican armies and the capture of the Mexican capital. In 1848, upon the mighty wave of exultation, General Zach- ary Taylor was borne into the presidency. The life-longelaims of Kentucky's greatest sons were set aside and the excited nation placed the victorious soldier at the helm of the state. With the inauguration of Taylor camne the demand of California for admission as a State, and the necessity of providing territorial Governments for the other acquisitions which the United States had 1rnade. With these demands caine the exciting question whether the States to be carved out of the new domain should be free or slave States. The advocates of the Wilmot proviso on the one hand, and the advocates of the obliteration of any geographical line restricting the extension of slavery on the other, waged loud and clamorous wrangle in every hamnlet of the Union, and fiercest of all in the council halls of the nation. The election of General Taylor to the Presidency had forever blighted what was supposed, by both friends and opponents, to be the cherished ambition of Kentucky's peerless son, Henry Clay-his election to the Presideney. Stricken in years, and with waning physical strengytlh, a purer and loftier ambition for a time aroused all the energies of his gallant soul. Resuming his seat in the Sen- ate of the United States, the grandest period of his life was its close. Cass, Douglas, Webster, Foote-men who had shivered many a lance upon his buckler-recognized the imperial grandeur of his efforts, and generously hailed him chief among the giants. Under his leadership the compromise measures of 1850 were adopted, resulting in the admission of California, without restriction of slavery (although her State Constitution had forbidden it), and in the extension of the Missouri Compromise line of 36 30' through the new Territories, north of which slaverv was interdicted, and south of which the people were permitted, in organizing their State Governments, to decide the question for themselves. And then Henry Clay sank to his last, long sleep, beneath the monument erected to the memory of his services, his genius and his fame. But with his death dropped, never to wave again in successful conflict in Kentucky, the Whig banner, which so proudly floated at the head of the hosts of his admiring followers. HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. The question of calling a convention to revise and amend the Constitution of Kentucky, which was adopted in 1799, was twice approved by the people with remarkable unanimity. One hundred members were accordingly chosen, and May 'I, 1850, the new Con- stitution was adopted by a popular majority of 51,351. June 3 the convention again assembled, adopted several amendments, and June 11 adjourned, after proclaiming the third, or present, Consti- tution. In 1851 the Democratic party succeeded in electing their candidate, Lazarus W. Powell. The two Houses of the General Assembly, however, were Whig. The tide ebbed in 1855, and by a com- bination between the Whiig and Native American parties, Charles S. Morehead was elected Governor. In 1856, under the impetus given by the position of John C. Breckenridge on the Democratic ticket as candidate for the -Vice-Presidency, the State was carried by the Democrats by an overwhelming majority; and in 1859 that organization elected its candidate for Governor, Beriah Magoffin, and succeeded in obtaining a decided majority in both Ifouses of the Legislature. In the meantime grave events had been occurring in Congress, and threatening and portentious prominence was again manifesting itself in the question of slavery. The citizens of the slave-holding States heard with ill-repressed indignation the stigma cast upon the institution, and viewed with restless jealousy the attempt made by the Abolitionists to destroy it. The slave-holder believed the institution to be not only best for the social and agricultural de- velopmnent of the country, but a blessing, to the slave, right in prin- ciple, correct in morals, and sanctioned by Divine command. The Abolitionists, on the contrary, believed slavery an unmitigated curse to the slave, a dishonor to a free people, and blighting in its effects upon the dominant race. Many believed the institution ad- vantageons and desirable in certain localities, and were content to restrain it only by parallels of latitude. Many sought to evade decisive positions by taking refuge in the delusive sophistry of popular sovereignty, as exercised by Territorial Legislation. All shades of opinion not absolutely favorable to slavery, gradually molded themselves into a deeisive opposition to the institution. In 1860 the encroaching party had assumed gigantic and formid- able dinensions, while the South stood desperately and determin- edly at bay; and, when Territorial Governments were about to be formed for Kansas and Nebraska, demanded that the Territorial 38 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. restrictions by legislative enactment should be repealed, and that slavery should be allowed to go when climate, soil, and the wishes of the people, or the interests of the immigrants, should carry it. Violence, bloodshed, and rapine marked the contest on the soil of the new Territories; excitement, anger and bitter recriminiati ens, the discussions in Congress. The conservative mnen of the North finally yielding to the demands of the South, united with her rep- resentatives, and repealed the obnoxious restrictions. Tile repeal was the signal for an outbreak of popuflar excitement aind denunci- ation in the North, suc1l as her statesman had never previously encountered. In the conventions of 1860 the Democracy divided, one portion nominating Mr. Douglas as their candidate for the Presidency, the othernominiating John C. Breckenridge, of Kentucky. Tike Whigs nominated John Bell, of Tennessee, and the Republicans, or de- clared enemies of the institution of slavery, nominated Abraham Lincoln, of Illinois, but a native of Kentucky. The selisim of the Democratic party andl the refusal of the Whligs to co-operate with either portion of it resulted inthie election of Mr. Lincoln to the Presidency, by a plurality vote. Immediately, South Carolina se- ceded from the Union, followed by Georgia and all the Gulf States; nltimately by Tennessee, North Carolina, Virginia and Missouri. Then h Kentucky found herself face to face with the mihity question, which had been so long threateningly evolving itself, and now in- exorably pressed for a solution. Kentucky had, more extensively than any of the older States, contributed to the population of the newer and younger States. The tastes of her people and their descendants were emimiently and almost exclusively agricultural. In the gratification of these tastes and in the prosecution of pursuits kindred to such tastes, for nearly a third of a century, her young and enterprising men had been accustomed to seek for themselves homes located in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Mississippi, Arkansas and Louisiana. The ramifications of family ties were so extensive that State lines were practically ignored. Thousands of peol)le found in Ohio and In- diana those occupations which provided daily sustenance, but re- turned at nightfall to sleep in Kentucky. These facts and their surroundings outght all to be carefully considered before admitting the justice of the denunciations of the North, so frequently. pro- nounced against Kentucky as traitorous, or the taunts of the fiery South, that she was cowardly, avaricious, and more prone to pro- 39 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. tect her wealth than to defend her honor. The time came when, upon many a stricken field, in many a desperate and headlong charge, in full many a heady fight, the imputation of cowardice was answered-as it has not often been answered. It is not possible in this brief outline of the history of Kentucky to give a detailed account of the civil war. Kentucky remained neutral for one year, and then pledged herself to the cause of the Union. The war ceased in April, 1865, with the entire subjuga- tion of the South. All that the States-lRigts men had prophesied would be accomplished if unresisted-all that the Union men had denied to be the object of the war-was accomplished; the South was conquered, the slaves were freed, and negro political equality recognized throughout the nation. Neighborhood strifes and an- imosities had been engendered in every village and hamlet. Men who had been playmates in boyhood, who uinder ordinary circum- stances would have gone through life leading for kindly support on each other, had found social ties disrupted, and persecuted each other with vindictive hate. Mothers wept in every household for the lost darlings who were sleeping tAie sleep of the brave, in both Federal and Confederate uniforms But the terms of peace had hardly been signed when the kreat popular heart of the State swelled with magnanimous and generous rivalry in the effort to repair the past. The pe()ple of the whole State seemed to remem- ber with sorrowful pride the noble mien who had died gallantly in the ranks of either army. Over their faults was thrown the man- tle of the sweet and soithing charities of the soldier's grave; while for their services was manifested and displayed unstinted admiira- tion for the valor with which they had borne the dangers and pri- vations of war. The next Legislature wiped from the statute book every vindic- tive or discriminating law, and the Executive of the State, Gov- ernor Thomas E. Bramlette, himself a soldier who had served with distinguished ability in the Federal army, led public sentiment in the effort to grant practical amnnesty for the lpast. And now the children of Kentucky, once more united, chastened by the sorrows of the past, dropping tears of reverential respect for those that have fallen, turn hopefully to the duty of providing best for the living, with a firm faith in the ultimate triumph of free institutions and the cause of constitutional liberty. 40 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. STATE OFFICERS. 1792.-Isaac Shelby, the first Governor, took the oath of office June 4, under the first Constitution; James Brown, Secretary of State. 1796.-Jaines Garrard took the oath of office June 1; Harry Tolihnin, Secretary. The present Constitution was formed 1799. 1800.-James Garrard, being eligible, was again elected Gov- ernor; Alexander S. Bullitt, Lieutenant-Governor; Harry Toul- mli, Secretary. 1804.-Christopher Greenup, Governor; John Cal dwell. Lieu- tenant-Governor; John Rowan, Secretary. 1808.-Charles Scott, Gov'ernor; Gabriel Slaughter. Lieuten- ant-Governor; Jesse Bledsoe, Secretary. 18 12.-Isaac Shelby, Governor; Richard Hickman, Lieutenant- Governor; Martin D. Hlardin, Secretary. 1816.-George Madison, Governor; Gabriel Slautghter, Lieuten- ant Governor; Charles S. Todd, Secretarv. Governor Madison died at Paris, Ky., October 14, and on the 21st of the samte month, Gabriel Slaughlter, Lieuitenant-Governor, assumed the duties of Executive; John Pope, and after him, Oliver G. Waggoner, Sec- retary. 1820.-John Adair, Governor; William T. Barry, Lieutenant- Governor; Joseph C. Breckridge, and after him. Thomas B. Movn- roe, Secretary. 1824.-Joseph Desha, Governor; Robert B. McAfee, Lieuten- ant Governor; William T. Barry, succeeded by James C. Pickett, Secretariy. 1828.-Thomas Metcalfe, Governor; John Breathitt, Lieutenant- Governor; George Robertson, succeeded by Thomas T. Critten- den, Secretary. 1832.-Jolh Breatbitt, Governor; J. T. Morehead, Lieutenant- Governor; Lewis Saunders, Seeretary. Governor Breathitt died Feb. 21, 1834, and on the 22d of the same month, JSines T. Morehead, Lieutenant-Governor, took the oath of office as Gov- ernor of the State; John J. Crittenden, William Owsley, and Auis- tin P. Cox were successively Secretary. 1836.-James C]ark, Governor; Charles A. Wickliffe, Lieutenant- Governor; James AM. Bullitt, Secretary. Governor Clark died Sept. 27, 1839, and on the 5tb of October Charles A. Wickliffe, Lieutenant-Governor, assumed the duties of Governor. 1840.-Robert P. Letcher, Governor; Manlius V. Thoimlson, Lieutenant-Governor; James Harlan, Secretary. 41 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. 1844.-William Owsley, Governor; Archibald Dixon, Lieuten- ant-Governor; Benjamin Hardin, George B. Kinkead and William D. Reed, successively, Secretary. 1848--'51.-John J. Crittenden, Governor; John L. Helm, Lieu- tenant-Governor; John W. Finnell, Scmretarv. Governor Critten- den resigned July 21, 1850, and John L. Helm became Governor until the first Tuesday in September, 1851. 1851-'55.-Lazarus W. Powell, Governor; John B. Thompson, Lieutenant-Governor; James P. MIetealfe, Secretary. 1855-'59.--Ciharles S. Morehead, Governor; James G. Hardy, Lieutenant-Governor; Mason Brown, Secretary. 1859-'63.-Beriahl Magoffin, Govelwior; Linn Bi)yd, Lieutenant- Governor (died Dec. 17, 1859); T'iomas B. Monroe, Jr., Secretary. Governor Magoffin resigned Aug. 18, 1862, and James F. Robin- son, Speaker of the Senate, became Governor. 1863-'67.-Thoinas E. Bramnlette, Governor: Richard T. Jacob, Lieutenant-Governor; B. L. VanWinkle (died May 23, 1864), suc- seeded by Jolin S. VanWinkle, Secretary. 1867-'71.---Johln L. Helm, Governor; John W. Stevenson, Lieu- tenant-Governor; Samuel B. Churchill, Secretary. Governor Helm died Sept. 8, 1867, and John W. Stevenson took the oath. as Gov- ernor. In August, 1868, he was elected Governor, serving until Feb. 11, 1871, when he resigned to take his seat in the U.nited States Senate; the Speaker of the Senate, Preston Hi. Leslie, became Governor. 1871-'75.-Preston H. Leslie, Governor; John G. Carlisle, Lieu- tenant-Governor; Andrew J. James, succeeded by George W. Crad- deck, Secretary. 1875-'79.-Jamnes B. McCreary, Governor; John C. Underwood, Lieuntenant-Governor. 1879-'83.-Luke P. Blackburn, Governor; James E. Cantrill- Lieutenant-Governor; James Blackburn, Secretary. UNITED STATES SENATORS. Adair, John ................. 1805-06 f1806-07 Btrry, William T ............. 1814-16 Clay, Henry .............. 1809-11 Bibb, George MJ 1811-14 CaHny18.31-42 Bilbb, George M-......... - -1829-35 1849-52 Bledsoe, Jesse..........1813-15 1817-19 Brecke iridlge, John.. ..C. J. 1801-051835-41 Breckenridge, John C.......... 1861 J1842-48 Brown, John......... 1792-1805 1855-61 Re-elected 42 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. UNITED STATES SENATORS.-Contgnued. Davis, Garret ...............1861-72 Dixon, Archibald. . ............. 18.;2-55 Edwards, John ............... 182-K25 Guthrie, James ............... 1865-68 Hardin, Martin D ............ 1816-17 Johnson, Richard M .......... 18t9-29 Logan, William .............. 1819-20 Machen, Willis B ............ 1873-75 Marshall Humphrey .... ... 1795-181) McCreery, Thomas C ...... 1868-71 11873-79 Mrerriwether, David.......1852-53 Aletcalfe, Thomas ............. 1b48-49 Morehead, James T ........... 1841-47 Pope, John ................... 1807-13 Powell, Lazarus W ........... 1859-65 Rowan, Joln ................ 1825-31 Stevenson, John W ........... 1871-77 Talbot, Isham ............. 1810-29 Thompson, John B ............ 1853-59 Thruston, John Buckner.......1805-09 Underwood, Joseph R ........ 1847-53 Walker, George .............. 1814-15 REPRESENTATIVES IN CONGRESS. Adair, John .................. 1831-33 Adams, George M . ........ 1867-75 Adams, Green ............ 184,7-49 Allan, Chilton ............ 18... 1831-37 Anderson, Lucien ............. 1863-65 Anderson, Richard C., Jr ......1817-1 Anderson, Simeon I .......... 18'39-40 Anderson, William C ......... 1859-61 Andrews, Landaff Watson ..... 18:39-43 Arthur, William E ........... 1871-75 Barry, William T .1810-11 Beatty, Martin......... 1833-3 Beck, James B......... .... 18i7-75 Bedinger, George Mr ........1803-07 Bell,Joshua F......... 1845-47 Boyd, Linn. 1835-37 Boyd, linn ................. 1839-5.) Boyle, John ................. 1803-0'9 Breck, Daniel ................ 1849-51 Breckenridge, James D ....... 1821-23 Breckenridge, John C ......... 1851-55 Bristow, Francis M .......... 1859-61 J18-59-61 Brown, John Young ........ 1867-69 . 1873-75 Brown, William .............. 18'9-23 Buckner, Aylett .... ........ . 1847-49 Buckner, Richard A .......... 1823-29 Bullock, Winglield ............ 1820-21 Barnett, Henry C ............... 1855-61 Butler, William 0 ... ........ 18:9-43 Caldwell. George Alfred ... 18443-5 Calhoon, John ........... ....1835-39 Campbell, John 8 187-43 Campb -11, John P ............ 185.-57 Casey, Samuel L ... .......... 182 -63 Chambers, John ........... 1828 29 1-35-39 Chilton, Thomas .......... 18-32_71 18.33-35 Chrisman, James S ........... 1853-55 Christie, Henry ....... ....... 18(9-11 Clark, BeverlyL... 1847-49 Clar, Jaes ......... 181s3-16 C(llark, James .- ----- 1825-31 Clay, Brutus J ................ 1863-65 1811-14 Clay, lIery .............. 1815-21 1823-25 Clay, Jame; B ................ 1S57-59 Coleman, Nicholas D ......... 1829-31 Cox, Leander M .............. 1853-57 Crittenden, John J ... ........ 1861-63 CrosIland, Edward ............ 1871-75 Daniel, Henry ............ 1827-33 Davis, Amos....1833-3 Davis, Garrett ............ 1839-47 Davis, Thomas T ........... 1797-t803 Desha, Joseph ............. 1816-19 Duncan, Garnett ............ . 1847-49 Dunlap, George W ............ 1861-63 Duval, William P ............. 1813-15 Elliott, John M .............. 1853-59 Ewing, Presley .............. 1853-54 Fletcher, Thomas ............. 1816-17 Fowler, John .............. 1797-1807 1835-37 French, Richard .1843-45 , 1847-49 Gaines, John P ............ 1847-49 Gaither, Nath an .............. 1829-33 Golladay. Jacob S ............ 1867-69 Graves, William J ............ 1835-41 Green, Willis ................. 1839-45 Greenup, Christopher. 179b2-97 Grey, Benjamin Edwards. 1851-55 Grider, Henry....-.. 1831-66 Grover, Asa P. 1867-69 ( 1815a-17 Hlardin, Benjamin......... -23 Harding, Aaron . ......... 1861-67 Harlan, James . . 183.5-39 Hawes, Albert G. . 1831-37 Hawes, Richard . . 1837-41 Hawkins Joseph W .. 1S14-15 Henry, Robert P ........ ... . 1823-26 i I i I I I I 43 HISTORY OF KENTCtKY. REPRESENTXfIVES IN CONGRESS.-Continwed. Henry, John F ................ 1826-27 Hill, Clement S ............... 1853-55 Hise, Elijah ................ 1866-67 Hopkins, Samuel .1813-15 Howard, Benjamin .......... . .1807-10 Jackson, James S ............. 1861-62 Jewett, JoshuaH ............. 1855-59 Johnson, Francis .......... ... 182 t-27 Johnson, James .............. 1825-26 Johnson, James L ............ 1849-51 Johnson, John T .............. 1821-2.5 Johnson, Richard M ...... j 1807-19 0 1829-37 Jones, Thomas L . ..........1867-71 Kincaid . .............. 1829-3'3 Knott, J. Proctor . ............ 1867-71 Lecompte, Joseph . ............ 1825)-33 Letcher, Robrt P ........._ 1823-33 Lewis, Joseph H . ....... 18,0-73 Love, James . ............ 1833-35. Lyon, Chittenrden ............. 1827-35 Lyon, Matthew ............... 1803-11 Mallory, Robert .............. 18.9-fa Marshal], Alexander K ........ 185--57 Marshall, Humphrey ...... 1849 -3 Marshall, Thomas A ..........1 831-3 Marshall. Thomas F ..... 1843 -4) Martin, John P..... 184.-47 Mason, John C ........... 1849-53 May, William L...... 18.33-.-39 McDowell, Joseph H..... 1843 -47 McHatton, Robert .. ......... 1826-09 McHenrV, John H . . ... 1843-47 McHenry. Henry D . .... 18717 McKee, S-Lmuel. . ... 1809-17 McKee, Samuel . . 1865-09 McLean, Alney ........... 18159-1 McLean, Finis Ewing ......... 1849-51 Menefee, Richard M .......... 1837-39 Menzies, John W ............. 1861-6. Metcalf, Thomas..... 1819-28 Montgomery, Thomas ...-.. 182-123 Moore, Laban T . ........... 1859-b1 Moore, Thomas P.... 1823 -29 183,3-3.5 Moorehead, Charles S ......... 1847-5l Murray, John L.. . 183-3 9 Ormsby, Stephen . ............ 1811-17 Orr, Alexander D . .......... 1792-97 Owsley, Bryan Y . .......... 1841-43 Peyton, Samuel 0. 187-49 1857-61 Pope, John. ...............1837-43 Durham, MiltpVJ . . 1873-75 Milliken, CharTes W .. 1873-75 Pope, Patrick H .............. 1833-35 Preston, William ............. 1853-57 Quarles, Tunstall. 1817-20 Randall, WilliamH. 1863-67 Read, William B. 1871-75 Rice, John M1 ............... 1869-73 Ritter, Burwell C .185-67 I Robertson, George .1817-21 Rowan, John .1807-09 i Rous3eau, Lovell H .1865-67 Rumsey, Edward .1837-39 Sautndford, Thomas .1803-07 Shanklin, George S .1815-67 Sharp, Solomon P. 1813-17 Simms, William E .1859-61 Smith, Green Clay .1863-06 Smith, John Speed .1821-23 Southgate, William W .... 1837-39 Speed, Thomas....... 1817-19 brigg, James C ............... 1811-43 Stanton, Richard H .... !1849-55 Stevenson, John W .1857-61 Stone, James W...... . 1813-45 1851-53 Sweene v, William N. 18f'9-71 Swope. Samuel F .1855-57 Talbott, Albeit G .. 18655-61 Taul, Micah . ......... 1815-17 Thomasson, Williaim P ....1... 843-47 Thompson, John B ....... 18417-41 Thomaipson, Philip ....... 1823-25 Tibhatts, J hn W .184347 Thorm pkins, Christopher ...... 1831-35 Tumble, David .1817-27 Trimiible, Lawrence S ........ 1865-71 Triplett, Philip .1839-41 Trumibi, Andrew ..... . ....... 1845-47 Underwood. Joseph R 1.. 1835-43 Underwo.-d, Warner L .... 1855-59 Wa 7sworth, William Henry. . .1861-65 Walker, avid.18t7-20 Walion, Matthew .1803-07 Ward, A. Harry .......1...... 1 86f-f7 Ward, William T ............1 1851-53 White, Addison .1851-53 White, Divid. 1823-25 White, John .183.5-45 Wickliffe, Charles A. 1823-33 Williams, Sherrod .1835-41 Winchester, Boyd .1869-73 Woodson, Samuel H. 1820-23 Yancy. Joel .1827-31 Yeamnan, George H 1812-65 Young, Bryan R 184547 YounL, William F . 182-5-27 St-andiford, Dr. Elisha D ....1 87'3-75 Young, John D.... 1873-75 44 HISTORY OF KE NTUCKY. EMINENT MEN FROM KENTUCKY. Pres;(Idmts.-Abrahain Lincoln, Zachary Taylor and Jefferson Davis. Vice-Presidents.-David R. Atchison, Jesse D. Bright, John C. Breckenridge and Richard Al. Johnson. Govetnors.-Lilburn W. Boggs, Illinois; John Boyle (declined), Illinois Territory; Benj. Gratz Brown. Missouri; Win. 0. Butler (declined), Nebraska Territory; Richard K. Call, Florida; Thomas Carlin, Illinois; John Chambers, Iowa Territory; Wm. Clarke, Missouri Territory; Thomas Corwin, Ohio; Robert Crittenden, Arkansas; Henry Dodge, Wisconsin; Daniel Dunklir, Missouri; Win. P. Duvall, Florida Territory; Ninian Edwards, Illinois; John Floyd, Virginia; John P. Gaines, Oregon; Willis A. Gorman, Minnesota Territory; Benjamin Howard, Indiana4 Territory and Missouri Territory; Claiborne F. Jackson, Missouri; John McLean Illinois; Stevens T. Mason, Jr., Michigan; David 'Meriwether, New Mexico Territory; John M. Palmer, Illinois; J ohn Pope, Ar- kansas Territory; James Brown Rav, Indiana; Wm. A. Richardson Nebraska Territory; Green Clay Smith, Montana Territory; James Whitcoinb, Indiana; Joseph Ml. White, Florida Territory; Robert C. Wickliffe. Louisiana; Richard Yates, Illinois. ;ieubtenant- Governos.-Jaines Birney, Mlichigan; Ratliffe Boon, Indiana; Jesse D. Bright, Indiana; James Brown, Louisiana; Wm. L. D. Ewinog, Illinois; Hubbard, Illinois; Step, Indiana; C. W. Bird, Sec. Northwest Territory; Jacob 0. Phister, Sec. IowaTerritory. Ambassadors, foreiqn Ministers, etc.-Richard C. Anderson, Jr., Colombia and Congress of Panama; Williamn T. Barry, Spain; John C. Breckenridge, Spain; James Brown, France; Allen A. Burton, Colombia; Anthony Butler, Russia; Beverly L. Clarke, Guatemala and Honduras; Cassius M. Clay, Russia; Green Clay, Italy; Henry Clay, Ghent; James B. Clay, Portugal; Thomas H. Clay, Nicaragua and Honduras; L. IL. Clayton, Honduras; Thomas Corwin), Mexico; Ninian Edwards (declined), Mexico; Joseph Eve, Texas; Peter W. Grayson, Texas to United States; A. Mars Uancock, Malaysia Edward A. Hannegan, Russia; J. 0. Harrison, Spain; Charles J. Helin, Havana; Elijah IHise, Guatemala; Robert P. Letcher, Mexico; Robert B. McAfee, New Granada; Alex. K. M cClung, Bolivia; A. Dudley Mann, Austria, Hungary, and Switzerland; Humphrey Marshall, Central America, China; Thomas P. Moore, Colombia; Thomas H. Nelson, Chili and Mexico; James C. Pickett, Colombia 45 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. and Bolivia; John T. Pickett, Vera Craz; Win. Preston, Spain; George H. Proffit, Brazil; George Robertson (declined), Colombia and Peru; John Rowan, Jr., Two Sic.; Richard H. Rousseau, Honduras; Geo. N. Sanders, Liverpool; James Seinple, New Granada; James Shannon, Mexico and CentralAmerica; Charles S. Todd, Russia; Robert B. J. Troyinan, Vera Cruz; Edward A. Turpin, Venezuela; Robert Wickliffe, Jr., Sardinia; E. Ramsey Wing, Ecuador; Robert Woolley, Madagascar; Geo. H. Yeaman, Denmark. Officers United States Governmnent.--Tleary Clay, Secretary of State; George M. Bibb, Secretary of Treasury; Thomas Corwin, Secretary of Treasury; James Guthrie, Secretary of Treasury; Isaac Shelby (declined), Secretary of War; Jefferson Davis, Secretary of War; Joseph Holt, Secretary of War; WXn. T. Barry, Postmaster- General; Montgomery Blair, Postmaster-General; Orville H. Browning, Secretary of Interior; Amos Kendall, Postmaster- General; John McLean, Postmaster-General; Charles A. Wickliffe, Postmnaster-General; Win. J. Brown, Assistant Postmaster-General; Robert Johnson, Assistant Postmnaster-General; John Breckenridge, John J. Crittenden, Felix Grundy, James Speed, Henry Stanberg and Geo. M. Bibb, Attorneys-General; Benj. H. Bristow, Solicitor- General; Thomas H. Blake, John McLean, John Whitcomb, Com- missioners General Land-Office; Murray McConnell, Fifth Auditor United States Treasury; John C. Breckenridge, Secretary of War, Confederate States. United States Judges and other High Cburts.-Lorin Andrews, Sandwich Islands; Robert B. Warden, Charles W. Bird, Ohio; John Boyle, Robert Tuimble, Ohio; John Catron; Tennessee; John Coburn (declined), Michigan Territory; Thomas T. Davis, Indiana; Joseph E. Davis, E. Turner, Mississippi; Henry Hllumphreys, Texas; Josiah S. Johnson, Louisiana; B. Johnson, Thomas J. Lacy, Arkansas; John MIcLean, United States Judge; John McKinley, Samuel F. Miller, United States Judges; Benj. B. Meeker, Minnesota Territory; Nathaniel Pope, John AM. Robinson, Anthony Thornton, Illinois; John C. Richardson, Missouri; John B. Thornton, District of Columbia; Thomas Todd, United States Judge; Wim. T. Trimble, Oregon; Fielding L. Turner, Louisiana; Samuel R. Overton, Florida; Win. Henrv Wadsworth, John Rowan, Mexico. Presiding Oficers of Congress.-David B. Atchison, Senate; Linn Boyd, House Representatives; John C. Breckenridge, Jesse D. Bright, John Brown, Richard M. Johnson, John Pope, Senate; 46 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. Henry Clay, John White, House of Representatives; Thomas Dougherty, James C. Allen, Clerk House Representatives. United States Senators.--David B. Atchison, Francis P. Blair, B. Gratz Brown, Missouri; Jesse D. Bright, Henry S. Lane, Edward A. Hannegan, Indiana; Jamnes Brown, Solomon U. Dowvns, J. S. Johnson, Allan B. Magruder,.Louisiana; Louis F. Linn, Missouri; Thomas Corwin, Ohio; Henry Dodge,'Wisconsin; Ninian Edwvards, John McLean, John M. Robinson, James Semnple, Richard Yates, Illinois; James Whitcomb, Indiana; Jefferson Davis, Thomas B. Read, Mississippi; John Norvell, Michigan; H. P. Hann, California; Felix Grundy, Tennessee; John McKinley, Alabama; Robert W. Johnson. Arkansas. Besides the foregoing, there are seventy-eight that have been Members of Congress from other States, and twenty-one presidents of colleges not in Kentucky. KENTUCKY SCHOOL STATISTICS. From the lately issued report of the superintendent of public instruction, we glean the following statistics of the conmmon schools of Kentucky: Number of districts, 1880 ..................... . ................ 6,177 Number of children enrolled ...................................... 478,554 Average number attending school ............................ 158,218 Number of teachers-Males ............................. 4,418 Numbers of teachers-Females ............................ 2,358-6,776 Average wages in country, per month ............................ 21.71 Average wages in cities, per month, males.90.07 Average wages in cities, per month, females........................ 43.48 School houses-log ........................ 3,369 School houses-frame, in cities ..... ................... 4 School houses-brick, in cities .......... ............... 44 School houses-brick, in country ... ..................... 101-3,518 While there are 478,554 children enrolled, the average number in attendance is only 158,218, or less than one third. There are 6,177 districts and 3,518 school-houses, so that about one third of the districts in the State are without school-houses. The wages of teachers in the country districts 21.71 a month. ILLITERACY IN KENTUCKY. According to Census Bulletin No. 313 there are in Kentucky 258,1SO persons ten years of age and upward unable to read, and 348,362 unable to write. 47 48 HISTORY OF KENTUCKY. Native whites unable to write ..................... 208,796 Foreign born unable to write ..................... 5,701 Colored unable to write..................... 133,895 The native white population is 614,311; the per cent. unable to write, 22.8. The foreign white population, 58,964; the per cent. unable to write, 9.7. The colored population, 190,223; the per cent. unable to write, 70.4. POPULATION. In 1860 the population of Kentucky was 1,155,684. In 1870 it was 1,432,695; number of farms, 110,000; number of productive establishlents, 5.000. CENSUS OF 1880. COUNTIES. Por Adair......... 13,07T Allen........ 12,089 Anderson ........ 9,361 Ballard . ..... 14,378 Barren........ 22,321 Bath........ 11,982 Bell..... ... 6,055 Boone......... 11,995 Bourbon. ........ 1,'5,958 Boyd...... 1.. 2,162 Boyle........ 11,930 Bracken ........ 13,509 Breathitt ........ 7,742 Breckenridge ...... 17,486 Bullitt........ 8,521 Butler........ 12,181 Caldwell..... .. 11,283 Calloway .13,295 Caampbell..... 37,440 Carrll .8,953 Carter..... ... .-12,345 Casey..... 10,983 Christian..... 31,681 Clark ......... ...12,113 Clay..... 10,2222 Clinton..... 7,212 Crittenden..... 11,688 Cumberland..... 8.891 Daviess... .. 27,724 Idnionson ........7,222 Elliott..... 6,507 Estill.....9.. ,960 Fayette ............ 23,023 Flerning.... 15,221 Flovd.... 10,176 Franklin. ..18,698 Fulton.... 7,979 Gallatin... . 4,832 Garrard...... . ....11703 Grant ............. 13,083 ' COUNTIES. Pop Graves ... ........ 24,131 Grayson.... 15,784 Green.. .. 11,871 Greenup.... 13,371 Hancock.... 8,563 Hardin.... 22,564 Harlan.... 5 ,278 Harrison ........... 16,502 Hart .............. 17,133 Henderson.... 24,516 Henry.. 14,492 Hickman .. 10,662 Hopkins.. 19,12.3 Jackson .. 6,678 J(fferson ....... 145,902 Jessamine ......... 10,864 Johnson....... 9,155 Kenton...... 43,983 Knox .10,587 Larue. 9,800 Laurel. , 9,131 Lawrence. 13,262 Lace .4,254 Leslie .3 740 Letcher .6,601 Lewis .13,154 Lincoln. 15,079 Livingston. .. . 9,165 Logan...... 24,358 Lyon....... 6,760 Mc Cracken...... 16,266 NicLean....... 9,293 Madison...... 22,051 Magoffin...... 6,943 Marion...... 14,691 Marshall...... 9,647 Martin.... . ,057 Mason.... 20,469 Meade ............ 10,322 Menifee.. .. 5,410 COUNTIES. Pop Mercer .......... 14.141 + Metcalf .......... 9,423 MN'tonroe... ..10,742 Montgomery ....... 10,567 Morgan .......... 8,455 Muhlenburg ........ 15,698 Nelson .......... 16,609 Nicholas..........11,809 Ohio.......... 19,669 Oldham .......... 7,685 Owen......... 17,401 3 Owrsley .......... 4,942 Pendleton .......... 16,702 Perry......... 5 ,607 Pike.......... 15,003 Powell......... 3,639 Pulaski .......... 21,318 Robertson ......... 5,814 Rockeastle ......... 9,670 Rowan ......,.4,419 Russell..... 7,591 Scott ..............1 4,965 Shelby..... 16,813 Simpson ......,.16,641 Spencer... .. .7,040 Taylor..... 9 9,260 Todd..... 1....... 15,998 Trigg..... 14,489 Trimble..... 7,171 Union..... 17,808 Warren . .... 27,528 Washington ... 14,419 Wayne ... 12,512 Webster ........... 14,246 Whitley... 12,000 Woolfe. .. . 3,800 Woodford ....... 4,960 Total ....... ... 1,648,509 HISTORY OF BAVIESS 6OUNTYI CHAPTER I. EARLY SE:TTLEMENT. The first permanent settlemn3nt in what is now Dtviess County, was probably made in 1797 or 1798, by the celebrated William Smither, more popularly known as "Bill Smothers;" thissettlement was made on the site of the present city of Owensboro. For an extended account of this remarkable man, see Chapter II. The centers of the principal settlements made in this part of the State, were at Hartford, on Rough Creek, and Vienna (now Calhoon), at the falls of Green River. Each place was rudely fortified against the attacks of the Indians, and crowded with meli, women and children who had gathered there for safety. Their chief source of subsist- ence was wild game. This soon became scarce, and as soon as danger from Indian depredations was over the families began to set- tle outside the forts, though at first, within a short distance of the center of the settlement. The families at Hartford subsequently located on the banks of Rough Creek. The following recollections ot the early settlers of the county are from the pen of Judge George W. Triplett: All of the now county of Daviess once belonged to, and- was a por- tion of, Ohio County, except a small tract in the northwest some four miles wide, on the Ohito River, and extending south a few miles to Green River, which was taken off of Henderson and added to Daviess some twenty years ago. Also the greater portion of McLean lying on the north side of Green River and taken from Daviess to form McLean, was originally part of Ohio Count-. All of the earlier settlements of old Daviess were made whilst the Ter- ritory was part of Ohio, a large portion of the first settlements being in the region around Vienna, now (alihoon. The first settle- muent of the present Daviess County was made by Bill Sniothers, Felty Husk and James Smothers, followed by Rodger Potts in 4 (49) HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. 1802, by John and David Lemnan in 1801; Matthew Rodgers, William Galloway aad some others in 1805. Mrs. Ann Moreland, now residing in Owensboro, an excellant old lady, is a daughter of Rodger Potts. Mrs. Moreland has resided in the present limits of Owensboro for upward of seventy years. Wm. Galloway in a year or two settled about four miles west of Owensboro, in what was then and is still called the Buzzard Rtoost Hills. He soon had neighbors, Bill Wornall, James Romuine, the Asterhorrys and a tew others. They were all squatters, settling where they chose, an and anmong the rich hills. The owners of the lands resided in Virginia. The whole coun- try, hills and river bottoms. was almost a dense cane-break, and filled with bear, deer, wolves and other wild animals, also turkeys in great abundance. The hollow trees seemed to be infested with raccoons and honey bees; but little labor was necessary. To clear a patch of ground on which to raise bread and potatoes, kill bear, deer, etc., for meat, cut down coon and bee trees, dress deer skins for clothing and moccasins, constituted the general occupation of the earlier settlers. This inode of life was continued by many up to 1833, when the writer was first through this neighborhood, when he was shown a poplar tree, full eight feet across the stunmp, which had been cut down on the 25th of December, 1830, as a Christmas frolic by the neighbors. The result was the catching of nineteen raccoons and fourteen gallons of strained honey, after thirty persons had satis- fied themselves by eating all-the honey they desired. The weather being cold the honey had to be warmed in iron pots before strain- ing. This tale looks big, but I was assured by men who were of the party that it was true, and the parties were reliable, truthful Men. Thcse old people are all gone, having left the country ol died, and but few of their descendants remain. They were backwoods people and hunters. Yet most of them were men of noble traits of character. Brave and fearless, hospitable in the full sense of the word, they took no advantage of each other, or of strangers. They would go ten to twenty miles to help a new comer to raise his cabin. The iife was always taken along, and they would kill and take in name for provisions at the raising and for a supply for the new coiner until lie could get about and help himself. They wvounld s tay until all wvas ready for the new coiner to move in. woo HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. There were no locksito neat-houses or corn-cribs in those days. One end of a deer-skin cord was fastened to a rude latch on the inside of their cabin doors, and the other end of th cord was al- ways hanging outside. There was no pilfering, backbiting or slan- dering. It a difficulty took place, there was no shooting or cutting and if the matter could not be settled without a fight, their rifles and butcher-knives were laid aside and a fair fist and skull affair settled the fuss. No biting or gouging or foul holds were allowed. What has been said of these people applies in a great measure to the earlier settlers generally. The early settlers, however, ill other portions of the country were more thrifty, paying more at- tention to clearing farms, raising horses, cattle and hogs. The pioneers ill the eastern portion of the county were Ben Duncan, on Pup Creek in 1801, a prominent man in his day, father of Major Ben Duncan, lately deceased. and father-in-law of Asa Smeathers, and James Griffin, two of our oldest and best citizens. Ben Dun- can at an early day represented Ohio and other counties in the House of Representatives and Senate of Kentucky. C. Head, in Pup Creek in 1803, was an early pioneer, as was also the Bells, Adamses and others on or near Pup Creek in 1803 or 1804. Jim Gentry settled all along from. Rough Creek, in Ohio County, to the month of Blackford, on the Ohio River. Gentry was the great hog-raiser of his day; he would examine the country in the spring-time for long distances and climb the treed, ascertain where the best mast crop would be, and in due time take posses- sion and move in his hogs. When Gentry's mast privileges began to be interfered with he crossed over the Ohio River into Indiana, where few settlements had been made-, and where he had ample range. Gentry settled and gave name to what is now the thrifty village of Gentryville, Ind. General John Daveiss and his brother, Jo Daveiss, were also early settlers and prominent men. A few years later Thomas Clay, a Virginian by birth, and a Rev- olutionary soldier, settled seven miles above Owensboro on the present Hawesville road. Thomas Clay and his brother Green Clay, first settled in Madison County, Ky., from which they were both members of the convention which established the second Con- stitution of Kentucky, and finished their labors at Frankfort, Ky., on the 7th day of August, 1799. Thomas Clay and Green Clay were both men of wealth. Thomas purchased several thousand acres of land of the best quality, and settled in Ohio County, now Daviess, 51 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. and was grandfather of U. S. Senator T. C. McCreery. Green Clay was father of Hon. Cassius M. Clay. Richard Hawes, Robert McCreery, Elijah McOreery, Enoch Kendall, Amos Riley, the Robertses and others were early settlers in what is called the Beech Woods, and in tbe neighborhood of the present village of Yelvington. They were all good citizens, and men of wealth, or by industry became wealthy. Robert McCrecry was the father of Hon. T. C. McCreery. Richard Hawes raised eight sons to be grown, four of whom survive. Governor Richard Hawes resides in Paris,Ky.; Walker Hawes lives in Texas; Edwin Hawes is now a resident of Owensboro, and W. F. Hawes, of St. Louis, Mo. The Hawes family was a wealthy one, the sons all prominent men, and would have been prominent men in any part of Kentucky. Richard and Albert were each some six years in the United States Congress. The "B Beech Woods " was for many years known far and wide for its unpretending, yet magnificent, hospitality. The early settlers in the present county of Daviess, south of Panther Creek, were Ben Field, Joshua Griffith, Reuben Field and others. Colonel William Newton and Warner Crow were early settlers, but at a later date than Field and Griffith. Ben Field was born in Culpeper County, Va., was a Captain in the Revolutionary army, was with General George Rogers Clark in the expedition against the British that captured Kaskaskia, Ill., and Vincennes, Ind., then an Indian country under the control of the British. From 1781 to 17 90 Ben Field was a surveyor in the wild portions of Kentucky, making frequent trips to his home in Virginia, in the winter. He finally settled, about 1803 or 1804, in Ohio County, now Daviess, on a tract of land lying ten miles south of Owensboro, and which he had.slnrveyed about twenty-three years before. He died about 1841, aged nearly ninety. He was entitled to a pension of about 30,000, only half of which lhe ever realized Field was witty, genial and hospitable, and raised a large and respectable family. Al] Of his children are (lead except Captain William Field. and all are highlly respected citizens of Ollio County. His grandson. Larkin Field, is a resident of Owensboro. Many of his grandclhildren and great-pound;ian cl ild ren reside in Daviess Coulntv. Joshua Griftit c'an-ie frorn M'arrylaid wid flilst settledl at Hart- forJ, and afterward about ten miles south of Owenes1oh o. thiell Olhio County. Joshua Grifflith was the tftliu' of ieninus Grifflitl and 52 This page in the original text is blank. 4,- A F,.1', Io.1Y UP . fo,' R[ISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. William R. Griffitli, both of' wholi were prominent mlien. His daughters married William Hanford, Moses Cuminins, Warner Crow and Johin McFarland. All of Joslhua Griffitlh's children are dead, but many of his descendants still live in Daviess. Joshua Griffith was a peculiar manl, very much like a Quaker in his dress and appearance. Remarkably fond of the company of those he liked, and full of fun. Ile was a great man for eggs, and always had plenty of them on hand. We could always tell you at meal- time, who lie liked or thought most of. Ie would put the question to each one, "IDo you like eggs" "How do you want them cooked" Each guest's eggs would be cooked as ordered, and placed on the table, and each guest directed to his proper place. If lie did not fancy the guest, only the number namied by hinm or her was placed. If lie thought well of the next an additional egg or two was served, but if he fancied or was specially fond of any particular one, then double the number was placed for that person. Ile was fond of children and amused himself nIuchi at their pranks, and sometimes played pranks on the children and larger persons. I-Ie had his coffin made twenty years before lie died, and kept it in a room up stairs, immediately above the room occupied by him, and generally under a bed immediately above. I-e always during fa-l, winter and spring kept good apples in the coffin for convenience, and also kept some of his egg gourds under the same bed, and whenever youngsters or children caine, he would ask if they wanted apples or eggs. Of course all said "yes." Ile would say, " You are young, and must wait on yourselves; just go up stairs and look under the bed and push the lid off that box. and get as many apples as you want, and bring tue some; and you, who want eggs, look in the big gourd behind the box and get sonie." The result may well be imi- agined, for as soon as the bedclothes were raised, the light dimly revealed the coffin, and then there was such a "getting down stairs, " without many apples or eggs, and after his laugh was over,he would then call in his faithful bod v servant, " Red," and have as many apples and eggs brought down as the youngsters and others could devour. In 1840 he exhibited to the writer a tea-kettle in good, serviceable condition, which he had purchased in Baltimore the day before his marriage, more than sixty years previously, and had continuously used the kettle the whole time. Colonel William Newton and Warner Crow settled in the same neighborhood, whilst yet Ohio County. Newton was from Cul- peper County, Va., and married a daughter of Ben Field. War- 53 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. ner Crow was born in Maryland and raised at Hartford. Then were both men of note; each was Sheriff of Daviess, and each represented the county in the Legislature of Kentucky. Three brothers McFarland settled in what is now McLean County, a short distance from Field and Griffith, about 1805. The McFarlands were from North Carolina, near the Yadkin River. and from Daniel Boone's old country. They were of large stature and men of great power, in good circumstances and made good citizens. Many of their descendants have filled prominent positions in the county of Daviess, and their descendants are more numer- ous in Daviess than the descendants of any other half dozen men who ever settled in the county. The -early settlers of the southwest portion of the present Daviess County were David Glenn, with his boys, William, Duke, and David, from North Carolina, all good and true men. Many of their descendants still live in the section of country settled by David, Sr. John Galloway, or "Three Plait," as he was called, on account of wearing his hair long and banging plaited down his back, also settled near Glenn. He was an upright, honorable man, and made little change, during his life in his original primitive, or backwoods, habits. George Calhoon a little later settled about seven miles southwest of Owensboro on the same farm owned and occupied by his son, Rev. Samuel Calhoon. He was at one time Assistant Circuit Judge of the district. He raised a remarkable family of boys, all of whom became men of note, and with the most limited means for an education-only what the wilderness afforded. John Calhoon was the first Deputy in the Daviess County clerk's office. He stud- ied law at odd times, commenced practice at Hartford, was a Mem- ber of the Legislature, and for six years was a Member of Congress, again a Member of the Legislatdre, and then Circuit Judge. He afterward settled at old Vienna, on Green River, and when McLean County was established, the writer had the honor of nam- ing the county seat Calhoon, in honor of Judge Calhoon. Three of the other brothers, George, Henry and Mitchell, became lawyers, one of whom was a Judgein Mississippi; Samuel became a preacher of the Cumberland Presbyterian church, and has continued to preach for more than fifty years. He is quite infirm in body, but his mind is still strong. Ralph Calhoon was a man of fine mind, a fluent talker, and of vast information. He died some twenty years ago at what is known as Calhoon's Ferry, on Green River. 54 HISTORY OF ])AVIESS CoiUNA TY. Willis Pickett, a house carpenter of Owensboro, went to Texas in 1837, joined a company, and participated in the contest with Mexico for the independence of Texas. Robert and Charles Tarleton were early settlers in the vicinity of Owensboro. Of such namies and men were the original settlers of Daviess County, and from such men are many of our people descended. In 1834 the voters of Daviess County, then including halt of Mc- Lean, only numbered 800. Now, in 1875, with McLean voting sep. arate, Daviess County has 4,800 white voters, and SO0 colored voters. There has been vast progress and improvement in population and wealth, social position, polish, and education. But with all our progress and improvement, increase of wealth and population can we congratulate ourselves that our manhood and integrity is an improvement on the manhood and integrity of the old settlers Among the early settlers that have been mentioned, the followving deserve a more extended notice: Hon. Joh/n H. IMcFarland, of Owensboro, is the oldest living resident of Daviess Conty, having spent more than seventy.-five vears within the limnits of the countv. He was born in Person County, N. C., April 26, 1798. His grandparents on his ftiher's side emigrated from Ireland in 1690. Ilis maternal grandparents, Chambers by name, caine from Scotland at a very early day. His parents were Walter and Lucy (Chambers) McIcFarland. and came to Daviess (then Ohio) County in 1805. Mr. McFarland remnem- bers well the journey fronm North Carolina, and while on a visit to that State in 1875, was able to point out the place where his father lived, and where he hinself was born. The McFarlands started from North Carolina in September, and halted within a nile of where Lewis Station now stands, on the third of November. Settlements lhad been made in that vicinity by one or two persons, Captain Ben Field and Adam Shoemaker, and the samne year Joslhua Griffith put up a house, which he occupied with his family the next sea- son. There were no other persons living except at a distance of several miles, and the whole number of families living within the present limits of Daviess County was less than a dozen. Robert- McFarland bought 200 acres of land sonth of Owensboro, and made the first whisky and brandy ever inade in this county. Ile died in 1811, aged forty-six years. John was fourteen years old at the time of his father's death. The first school lhe attended was HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. kept by an Irishman named Andrew Kelly, two miles southwest of Lewis Station, and was probably the first taught in Daviess County. Oct. 26, 1816, when under nineteen years of age, he mar- ried Elizabeth, daughter of Joshua Griffith, of Baltimore, Md., and immediately went to farming, which occupation he has fol- lowed the greater part of his life. He was the most extensive farmer and tobacco-raiser in the county, often realizing 5,000 a year from the crop. Each year he planted 130 acres. After a married life of seventeen years, Mrs. McFarland died, leaving eleven children. In 1834 Mr. McFarland married Harriet Lea- man, the first child born in the city of Owensboro. By this mar- riage there have been seven children. In 1S57 he becanme a resident of Owensboro. He was a serious sufferer by the events of the war, and since then has given up active business to a great extent. During the war he was cultivating 130 acres of tobacco, which he lost entirely, besides losing 40,000 in slaves. On one occasion he saw a company of guerrillas ap- proaching the house. He had at this time 6,000 or 7,000 in the house. As not a moment could be lost, he handed the money to a negro boy, who rolled it up and hid it in a pile of ruh- bish, and it thus escaped the eves of the guerrillas; it was soon restored to its owner. In his politics Mr. McFarland was an old Henry Clay Whig, and an active worker in that party. In 1848 he was elected to the Legislature on the Whig ticket. He served one term, and made an honest record, as an efficient member, and a conscientious servant of the people. During the war of the Rebellion Mr. McFarland maintained the union of the States and the supremacy of the Gov- ernment according to the Constitution and laws; since the war he has acted with the Democratic party. Mr. McFarland has spent a life in honor and usefulness. He is well worthy to stand as an ex- ample of the men who reclaimed Kentucky from the wilderness, and prepared it for the abode of' subsequent generations. Among the early settlers of north McLean County (then in Daviess) was Anthony -Thompson, a strict constructionist of law, especially of Sabbath laws. He held that no one should labor on Sunday. In his vicinity one Saturday afternoon there arrived one Christopher Dickin, who had fallen heir to a survey of 400 acres, covering the site where Vienna stood, besides another tract of 1,000 acres in the vicinity. Mr. D. was moving from Vir- ginia to take possession of the property, with his family and 56 HISTOR- OF DAVIESS COUNTY. eeveral negroes. On Sunday morning they finished their journey, and Thompson bad Dickin arrested for violating Sunday law; and this prosecution became only the first of a long series of lawsuits and of an unending enmity between the men. On another occasion Mr. D. was building a house, and Saturday night caught him with the structure uncovered. The next day he commenced to work on the building, and Thompson com- menced lawing him again. These prosecutions, of course, led to a permanent enmity between the two men and their families. Philipeand Emanuel Taylor were early settlers in the southern part of this county. EARLY PREACHERS. John Daveiss, a brother of Colonel Jo Daveiss, was pverlhaps, the first resident minister in this county, being here in 1S15-'17. He was an Old-School Baptist, a sensible but anl old-fashioned, plainly dressed, unassuming man. Hle was a sort of lawyer, farmer, politician and preacher. The lawyer, politician and preacher elements did not seem to harmnonize very well, so he quit the law, but, being of a warm Irish temperament, lhe could not entirely ig- nore politics, so Iiis political aspiratio us somewvhat interfered wVithL his usefulness as a minister of the gospel. He was a man of ability, with most wonderful con versatioral powers, witty, genial and sociable in a high degree. George Render. a resident of what is niow Ohio County, was another minister of the samne persuasion, who, about the same time, made his monthly visits to points within the present limits of Daviess County, devoting Saturday and Sunday to public services. lie was rough in his appearance, but a kiind-hearted man. Thomas Downs and Williain Downs, brothers, were among the early (ld-School Baptist preachers, both entirely self-made men, and reared in the wilderness. Their father was killed by the Indi- ans near the oki stockade fort at Vienna, now Calhoon, on Green River. Thlomas, who resided south of Panther Creek, 1815t'35 ,and afterward, was a inan of fair capacity, great piety, and indom- itable energy in his holy mission. He (levoted his life to his Mas- ter's cause, and was always poor, and for many years traveled on foot from ten to forty miles to meet his appointments and attend the sessions of the Association. Every person loved and respected Thomas Downs. William Downs differed much from his brother. William, a resident of what is now Ohio County, was a man of 57 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. splendid intellect, fond of religious controversy. Being what was known as a bard-shell Baptist, lie warred with the United Baptists as energetically as with -Methodists, Presbyterians or Catholics. At one time John Calhoon and others secured a clialleinge from Downs to a Catholic priest, and its acceptance for a religious debate. At the time and place named Downs was on hand, having traveled on foot about seventy miles. Great preparations had been made, and fully 2,000 people were around the rude stand erected in the dense birch grove. At the hour, Downs mounted the stand, 'took a seat, and, after waiting nearly an hoti, raised himself up to his full height, and, after miinutely surveying the immense crowd for some ten minutes ('and no priest being in sight), broke forth in tones which eclhoed far and wide through the forest, Where, of), where is that uncircumcised Philistine who assumes the power of the living God " The excitemen was intense. The air was rent by shouts of the multitude. Downs quietly took a text, preached an able serimon, never alluding to Catholics. Dowvns did not walk home. He returned home superbly dressed. and for some time seemed to be flush with silver dollars, halves and quarters. Uncle Billy, with all his ability, seems not to have been heavily burdened with piety, and was bitterly oppised to total abstinence organizations. John Pinkston was an old-fiashionedl pioneer Methodist local preacher, earnest, zealous and efficient, and the early builder up of the Methodist church in this countv. HIe lived, 1818-'34 alld after. two or three miles from Owensboro. on the Litelifield road. Jasper Bristow was an old-fashioned Baptist preaclher, onl the hard-shell plan, a clever. good. and industrious citizen, residing here 1829-'34. Somne of his children and many grandchildren reside in the county. Reuben Cottrell, fromn near Richmiond, Va., of the United Bap- tists, was Here in 1833 and afterward. He was a preacher of note, and bitterly opposed to Frecnasonry. He was opposed to nemn- bers of the church belonging to any secret organization. Some of his children and many grandchildren reside in Daviess County. Samuel Calhoon lived about three miles out on the Henderson. until the time of his death. He was a member of the Cumber- land Presbyterian church; died within the last three years, nearly ninety years of age. Jo Miller was of German origin. He had removed from Shelby County, Ky., and settled on North Panther Creek. Uncle Jo 58 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. was a low, heavy, powerful man as to muscular strength. When he preached he put forth his whole physical and intellectual strength, and was more of an exhorter than preacher. He was fond of camp-meetings, where he was always in his element. He could do more crying, and have more crying done, and more tears shed, than any man of his day. He was an industrious and hard- working man. Uncle Jo seemed to have a passion for sawmills and improvements of that character. He spent almost a fortune on saw-mills and mill-dams on both North and South Panther Creeks, but his creeks were without rocky bottoms or banks, were low, sluggish streams, and he had great difficulty in mnaking his efforts remunerative. Jo Miller was a worthy and good man. Others and more prominent ministers have followed the old pioneer preachers, men of more learning. greater ability, and polished manners, but not more faithful, pious, or energetic than the old preachers who lifted up their voices in the wilderness to proclaim the tidings of salvation. OTHER EARLY OFFICIALS. From the records in the county clerk's office we obtain the fol- lowing names of ministers who solemnized matrimony in early day, in addition to those already mentioned: Daniel T. Pinkston. 1815-'20; Job Hobbs, 1815-'17; John Phipps, 1818 (probably lived in Hartford); Othello Williams, 1819-'24; Jesse Greene, Meth- odist Episcopal, 1819; William Allen, Methodist Episcopal, 1820- Reuben Owen, 1820; David Lowry, 1820-'21; Joseph Pearson, 1820-'23; W. Kincheloe, Methodist Episcopal, 1820; John Doris, Baptist, 1821-'35; William Barnett, 1822 (lived in what is now Ohio County); George Locke, Methodist Episcopal, 1824; William C. Long, Cuinberland Presbyterian, 1829; Ancil Hall, 1830-'3.3; Stephen F. Ogden, Methodist Episcopal, 1830-'31; James Moore, same church, 1832-33: William Morman, Baptist, 1S29-'34; C.L. Cliffton, Methodist Episcopal; Richard D. Neale, same, 1833; David J. Kelly, 1834; Elisha J. Durbin, 1829 and onward; John C. Wathen, Catholic priest, 1834-'35; F. Tanner, Baptist (resid- ing between Panther Creek and Green River), 1834-'35. The names of parties not indicated as ministers of the gospel, who solemnized matrimony in this county previous to 1835, we find to be these: Benjamin Peeplus, 1819; Benjamin Kelly, 1820; J. H. L. Moorman, 1820; Benjamin Talbot, 1820; Michael D. Neal, A. M., 1824; William Hart, 1830; T. W. Chindler, 1834. 59 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. MISCELLANEOUS NOTES. Mr. Meeks, the father of James and Charles Meeks, was killed across the river in Indiana in 1811, by an Indian named Sutty- house. The sons here mentioned then pursued the murderer until thev found him, and then killed him. The incoming war of 1812 directly afterward frightened all the Indians of this region to other parts of the country, since which time no depredations have been committed by them in this part of Kentucky. William Calhoon, the great-grandfather of George Calhoon, came to this country in a very early day. On one occasion, while surveying with another man, they were lost for forty days and nights, having nothing to eat except snakes and toads! They be- came so poor and weak that they had to lie down beside a sap- ling at night, so that they could raise themselves in the morning from the ground with the aid of their hands, as it were by climbing! Mr. Calhoon's grandfather, with five pounds (sterling) of money and an old wreck of a gun, purchased 1,400 acres of land, which now is said to be worth 50 an acre. The earthquake of 1811 was perceived by all the residents in this region. Articles suspended from the wall or ceiling were swung about like a bell on an animal's neck. The superstitions element of human nature was excited, and many are the amusing experiences witnessed on that occasion. For example, one An- thony Thompson, a pious Methodist, thinking that the world was coming to an end, met with his neighbors and prayed and sang and shouted. Byrd Wall, father of Banister, was appealed to by one of these excited believers, and he replied: "Oh, you needn't give yourselves any uneasiness. This earth is hung on axles like a horse-mill shaft, and I will insure its running safely for a thousand years yet to come." 1811.-This was a remarkable year in Kentucky,-comet, earth- quake, signs of war with Great Britain, first steamboat down the Ohio River, and the discovery of the Mammoth Cave! All these at a time when the people were superstitions,-no wonder they were frightened. It is claimed by one old resident, however, that the first steamboat on the Ohio River did not appear until 1814. The first shock of the earthquake was perceived at 2:15 r. M., Dec. 16, 1811. 60 HISTORY OF DAVIE8S COUNTY. c1 A RETROSPECT. And now, how natural to turn oour eyes and thoughts back to the log-cabin days of less than fifty years ago, and contrast it with the elegant mansion of modern times. Before us stands the old log, cabin. Let us enter. Instinctively the head is uncovered in token of reverence to this relic of ancestral beginnings and early struggles. To the left is the deep, wide fire-place, in whose corn- modious space a group of children may sit by the fire, and up through the chimney may count the stars, while ghastly stories of witches and giants, and still more thrilling stories of Indians and wild beasts, are whisperingly told and shudderingly heard. On the great crane hang the old tea-kettle and the great iron pot. The huge shovel and tongs stand sentinel in either corner, while the great andirons patiently wait for the huge backlog. Over the fire-place hangs the trusty rifle. On the right side of the fire-place stands the spinning wheel, while in the farther end of the room the loom looms up with a dignity peculiarly its own. Strings of drying apples and poles of drying pumpkin are overhead. Oppo- site the door by which you enter stands a huge deal table; by its side the dresser, whose " pewter plates " and " shining delf " catch and reflect " the fire-place flame as shields of armies do the sun- shine." From the corner of its shelves coyly peep out the relics of former china. In a curtained corner and hid from. casual sight we find the mother's bed, and under it the trundle-bed, while near them a ladder indicates the loft where the older children sleep. To the left of the fire-place and in the corner opposite the spinning- wheel is the mother's work-stand. Upon it lies the Holy Bible, evidently much used, its family record telling of parents and friends a long way off, and telling, too, of children Scattered like roses in bloom, Some at the bridal and some at the tomb. Her spectacles, as if but just used, are inserted between the leaves of her Bible, and tell of her purpose to return to its comforts when cares permit and duty is done. A stool, a bench, well notched and whittled and carved, and a few chairs complete the furniture of the r oomes, and all stand on a coarse but well-scoured floor. Let us for a moment watch the city visitors to this humble cabin. Tile citv bride, innocent but thoughltless, and ignorant of labor and care, asks her citv-bred husband: " Pray, what savages set this up' Ioynestly confessing his ignorance, he replies: "I do not knowv.'' 62 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. But see the pair on whom age sits " frosty but kindly." First, as they enter, they give a rapid glance around the cabin home, and then a mutual glance from eye to eye. Why do tears start and fill their eyes Why do lips quiver There are many who know why; but who, that has not learned in the school of experience the full meaning of all these symbols of trials and privations, of loneliness and danger, can comprehend the story they tell to the pioneer Within this chinked and mud-daubed cabin we read the first pages of our history; and as we retire through its low doorway, and note the heavy battened door, its wooden hinges, and its wel- coming latch-string, is it strange that the scene without should seem to be a dream But the cabin and the palace, standing side by side in vivid contrast, tell the story of this people's progress. They are a history and prophecy in one. CHAPTERV II. BILL SMOTHERS. The name of this remarkable pioneer has been variously spelled and pronounced, as Suneather, S ineathers, Smnither, Smithers, Smothers, etc., but Smither was probably correct; and II Bill " is supposed, of course, to stand for William. The above is the name bv wvhich lie was familiarly called. Ile was born on the western frontier of Virginia, near the Ilolston River. F1 is father was a hunter, and frequently took his'son with him to assist in bringing home the game. One morning he started at daylight, telling his wife that he would take a little round and be back to breakfast. As he did not return, a search was made for 1idm. His body was found about two miles from home, nearly devouied by the wild beasts; but the narrow blade of an Indian tomahawk had been driven deep into hiis brain. his wife was so deeply affected by his death that she lived only nine days, and was placed in death whlere she had been in life-close by the side of her husband. William was so excited that he did not close his eves in sleep during the night that followed her burial. Before day lhe went out, and standing by their graves, bov as lie was, he raised his hand to Heaven and swore that he would devote his life to the destruction of the Indian raee. And well did he keep that vow, for hie never saw an Indian that he did not shoot at, and he very seldom missed his aim. He felt very conscientious about killing a squaw, and re- joiced that it was never his misfortune to meet with one. William was twelve years old at the time of his parents' death. There were also two otlher children: James, aged nine, and Mollie. aged seven. One of the neighbors, a new comer, having no place cf his own, pro1)osed to take care of these orplhan children for the rent of the ftirrn. This was agreed upon, andl he moved in. Dur- ing that same year Williami went to live with. an uncle in Viir- ginia. who agreed to give him a good education, and 1QO in money when lie became of age. This uncle, whose name waas C'hrismnan, - was a manl who worshiped the rich and scorned the poor. I-le was so cruel and overbearing to his orphan ne)hew that the latter ran away from him in a few years. Ihe wandered (63) HISTORY (oF IDAVIESS COINT y. through the country, stopping wherever lie could find anything to do, but found his stock of mnouey was growing less and less every day. Mle was in a little town called Taylorville, near the Catawba Ri-ver, when Colonel Shelby caine through beating up for volun- teers, and Williai joined hin because lie knew not what else to do. At that tinme the Brlitish llad(l a military post on King's Mountain, so nanmel fr-om the rtact that it stands alone, overlooking the country on all sides. It was at this point that the battle of King's Mount- ain was foughot between tlhe britisl atndl C(olonel Shelbv's inen. The latter were successful, havingr killed Ferguson and a great many of his mnen, captured 1,00(1 prisoners, 2,000 muskets, and all their military stores, and lost very few of their own men. After his discharge, William agyain wandered around the country until the following spring, when lie was taken by a squad of men belonging to General Green's command, who had been sent out to press teamsters to drive the wagons. Although Smothers was ex- empt from the duties of teamster, he was detained until after the battle of Guilford Court-House was fought, and was then dis- charged. After this he could find no employment and con- cluded to return to James River and visit his uncle and friends in that vicinity. But his uncle forgot to give him the 100, al- though he was twenty-one and had a very good education. He bade him good-bye, and started for his native town to visit his brother and sister. He found them still livingr with the man who had taken the farm. This man had a daughter whom Smothers courted one Sunday evening, and married the nextThursday. He was very anxious to proceed immediately to Kentucky, but his wife and sister insisted that the snow and ice oil the mountains would endanger their lives; so the, move was postponed until spring. On his arrival in Kentucky. he found the region around Lexing- ton mnore densely settled than the country lie had left on the Ilols- ton. He had come to figlat the Indians, and did not feel like taking wavges as a hand on a farm. Ile met a party who were coming dowvn to fortify in the Geen River country, and joined them at once. They built a fort at 11artford. on RPoull Creek. Wlhen thev were besieged the, fmuii that the Indians generally came fro)n lower Kentucky, wading Green River at the flls. T-iev es- tabi] ihed a fort there and called it Vienna. At first, of course, it wa- only a fort; afterward a towil was laid out there andi called Vienna. It is now called Calloon. The father of Wm. anmd HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Thomas Downs, a Baptist preacher, was the last man killed by the Indians here, which was in 1790-'2, within a few hundred yards of the fort. The section of the country about Vienna was settled up fully ten years before Bill Smothers came to Owensboro; the In- dians seldom came in great force afterward, and they soon scat- tered. Mrs. Smothers lived only a few years after her removal to Kentucky, and died, leaving two daughters and one son. Miss Mollie Smothers remained with her brother many years. Smothers, not liking the dense settlements around Hartford and Vienna, came to the Yellow Banks and built a cabin on the banks of the Ohio. This was about the beginning of the present cent- ury. The cabin was of round logs and had two doors; fromn one he had a view of the Ohio, and froni the other he looked into his garden. On the lower side of the house there was a shed-room, which was made by extending the main roof, being enclosed by slabs of timber planted in the ground. About four feet of a single log was cut out to make a passway into the room. In it he depos- ited his peltries and groceries, and when he entertained a large company, which was frequently the case, it was converted into a bed-chamber, more agreeable in cold than warmn weather, owing to the abundance of deer and bear skins and buffalo robes which were kept there. Nature had been liberal in her gifts to Smothers. In personal courage lie was inferior to no man, and lie was endowed with a good understanding. The operations of his mind were quick, and there was a sprightliness and point in his conceptions which never failed to interest the listener. In conversation he rarely descended to vulgarity, and never affected the coarse manner or rude speech of the ruffian. His voice, like his mind, was clear and distinct; and if he had received a thorough education lie would have been a shining light in the land. But his love of fun was his controlling passion, and led him into many improprieties and may have clouded his memory with crime. In person, he was five feet eleven inches high; his hair and beard were dark brown; his eyes were prom- inent and a clear, deep blue; his complexion was fair; and the ex- pression of his countenance was playful and intelligent. Whatever he did seemed to be performed deliberately. He spoke the truth, except when lie was planning some mischief, and then his fertile imagination readily invented whatever was necessary to the suc- cess of his scheme. On these occasions he could invent the most marvelous and miraculous lies, giving all the particulars and at- 65 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. tendant circumstances. Incredulity itself would be silenced by his earnestness of tone and his minuteness of detail. Smothers was delighted with his new home at the Yellow Banks. He was irn search of a good hunting-ground for himself, and good range for his horse and cow; and in these respects his situation could not have been improved. From Panther Creek to the Ohio River, and from Green River to Blackford, he was the only in- habitant. He roamed the forest alone and slaughtered the game at pleasure. The necessaries and even the luxuries of life were fur- nished to him at his very door. The barges, as they were slowly cordelled by their armed crews, would stop and give him salt, flour and groceries, in exchange for dried venison, bear-meat and buffalo robes. No man below the falls could furnish so sumptu- ous a meal, and no man ever entertained with more genuine hospi- tality. The visitors had a general partiality for "old rye" and "flour bread," as these articles were unknown in the interior. At the conclusion of one of his repasts, a man called " Leather-legs" wiped his mouth on the skirt of his hunting shirt, and remarked: " Smothers, I believe I will pull up stakes where I am, and come down here." This observation cast a shade over the countenance of Smothers, but he quickly replied, assuring his friend that the nnhealthfulness of the climate would greatly endanger his life; "and besides," said Smothers, "I intend paying you a visit on Pond River, and taking a long tramp in the hills; 1 like to hunt in the hills; the water is so much better than it is in the bottoms, and then you are clear of the black gnats, mosquitoes and galli- nippers that swarm in these flats." "Stop, Smothers," said Leather- legs, "you are taking a great deal of pains to tell me that you don't want me here. , I won't come; if I break up I will go to the mouth of the Wolf, or to the Red Banks." "Well, then,"' said Smothers, "we will be neighbors, and I will call and see you at either point." The remark of Leather-legs made a deep impression upon the mind of Smothers. It proved to him that others were at least thinking of intruding themselves into the small boundaries which he had assigned to himself; that the 150,000 acres of land which he had enjoyed as a hunting-ground would be occupied by other men; that settlements would be made, farms opened, and the game driven away or destroyed, and that he would be left in his old age without the means of support, in the country from which he had expelled the Indians. He did not spend his time in 66 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. gloomy despondency, but, like a true man, resolved to make every effort to avert the awful train of calamities which he saw at no great distance Xbefore him. A surveyor's chain he regarded with particular abhorrence, and, if opportunity presented, he would place it where it would never be stretched again; corner trees, he thought, ought not to stand, as they would be the starting points for sub- division. It will not be stated that he ever cut one, but many were missing. He determined also that his house should present fewer attractions. His table, instead of luxuries, was supplied with the simplest and coarsest fare of the hunter. He almost deserted his home, wandering weeks and months together in the woods. He hunted deer and bear oil this side of the river, killing as many as he wished, and twice a year he took an Indian hunt on the other side, where he was equally as successful. Sleepless days and nights would be spent to get a shot; and at every crack of his rifle an Indian fell. The melancholy and dreadful news, against which he would have gladly closed his ears, at last saluted Smothers, that at least twenty families had arrived upon his territory, and were then preparing to build houses and open plantations. The surveyor with his com- pass and chain was making new lines; the ax was bnsily plied in felling his trees; and the wedge lustily driven was riving his oaks. His lines had been broken and he was surrounded. In anguish and bitterness of spirit he contemplated his situation, and no ray of light broke through the dark cloud which enveloped him. At first he had almost resolved upon a hostile demonstration, but the number of the emigrants and the respectability of a portion of them, convinced him of the absolute folly and madness of such a course. Like all brave men, when fairly driven to the wall, he made up his mind to meet his fate with fortitude, and, making a virtue of ne- cessity, he determined to cultivate the good opinion of the new comers by a friendly visit to them. Near Blackford he called upon Ely and Natty Bell. At the house of the latter he was agree- ably surprised to find his brother James, who was laying siege to Bell's sister-in-law; she capitulated shortly afterward and they were married. In his circuit he saw Barker and Killenbarger, Holmark and Holinhead, Jones and Jordan, Glenn and Gentry, and on his return home he heard the ax of Felty Husk, who was cut- ting logs to build a house near the residence of Thomas H. Painter. Husk and Smothers afterward contracted a friendship which closed only with their lives. 67 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Hitherto there had been no legal tribunals in this section, and might had generally constituted right. But Anthony Thompson was commissioned and qualified as a Justice of the Peace for Nel- soin County. Ile lived a few miles to the west of Vienna, and his district was about as large as six of our present counties. Thomp- son had a clear head, an iron will, and the kindliest feelings toward the whole human family. The uneasiness which Smothers expe- rienced at the appointment of a magistrate in such close prox- imity to himself gradually faded away. Five years of impunity convinced him that Squire Thompson was his friend; and although he had never seen him, he began to like the man, but rather pre- ferr6d that Panther Creek should still continue to run between them. One day Thompson called upon Smothers and they were so well pleased with one another that they became intimate friends. One sultry evening as the last rays of the setting sun were' play- ing upon a bank of cloud, fringing its outline in purple and gold, Smothers and his sister sat upon the doorste's enjoying the cool air, and silently enjoying the splendors of the scene. Unnoticed by them, a keelboat had made fast at the landing, and several of the men were already in the yard. The foremost, a man by the name of Norris, was of Herculean proportions, and it was the boast of the crew that hle had never met a match il a fisticuff from Louisville to New Orleans. Miss Mollie left the side of her brother and entered the house. When they approached Smothers arose from his seat and invited them to walk in. They indulged themselves in such freedom of remark that Miss Mollie concluded she could not remain with propriety and ran to the house of Felty Husk. Smothers, who had not observed the absence bf his sister, remnon- strated with them in mild but very decided terms upon their un- becoming and unworthy behavior. The firmness of his manner, and the truth of what lie said, made an impression upon the boat- men. Six of the number upon leaving the house called to Norris to come and go to the boat. He told them to go oil and that he would be along directly. But he never went. In the dim twilight Smothers saw ten or twelve of the crew ascending the bank in a line to his house. Retreating by the back door he concealed him- self in a bed of strawberries which grew in his garden. When they entered and beheld the lifeless body of their comrade and friend extended upon the floor, with the warm blood still trickling from two ghastly wounds, their rage and indignation knew no bounds. They threatened to hunt for Smothers until they found 68 HISTroRY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. him, and to slay him at sight. Perceiving that they were search- ing and ransacking the house, and expecting them in the garden, he left his hiding place and spent the night in the woods. At day- light the next morning he knocked at the door of Ben Duncan, Esq., who lived on Pup Creek, ten miles above Yellow Banks. He informed 'Squire Duncan of the nature of the charges which had been made against him on the night previous and demanded a judicial investigation. 'Squire Dancan summoned the boatmen as witnesses and opened his Court of Iniquliry. In answer to the sum- mons the crew came in a body to the house of the justice. Many of them were armed, and declared it to be their intention to seize the prisoner and hang him to a tree. Buit the friends of Sniothers were there, and no man had more friends or truer friends than he had. They told the boatmen if they opened the ball in blood that the sun of that day would shine on many a corpse; that Smothers had surrendered himself to the officers of the law and was a pris- oner; that they could give their evidence if they had any, but if a hand was raised in violence they would resist it to the death. As they were prepared to make their words good the examination went on smoothly and quietly. The court decided that the offense was vailable, and required Smothers to give bond and security for his appearance on the first day of the next term of the Ohio (now Daviess) Circuit Court. The bond was immediately filled by the prisoner and a number of securities, and after recognizing the wit- nesses the court adjourned. Smothers, with six of his chosen friends, returned to his home. The boat was still at the landing, but the war was not renewed. Smothers was niuch perplexed in mind upon the subject of em- ploying good counsel to argue his case before the Circuit Court. For all minor offenses he had appeared in his own behalf, and had been uniformly successful; bult in a case which involved the question of his life or death, he was unwilling to trust himself. But he was poor, and lawyera' fees werehigb, and he knew not well what to do. His anxieties about the matter were happily relieved. The great advocate, Jo Daveiss, knew Smothers well, and admired him greatly for that indomitable couirage which never had been known to quail in the presence of danger. He heard, at Frankfort, of the affair, and sent Smothers a message which was characteristic of the man: "Don't ruin yourself hiring lawyers. I will be with you on the day of the trial." Smothers knew his man, and relied upon the promise with implicit confidence. The fame of Jo Daveiss as an orator and 69 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. the wide-spread acquaintance of the accused brought a concourse to court, such as had never been seen in Hartford before. The keelboatmen from Louisville were there, and strangers from a circuit of 100 miles were in attendance, curious to see Bill Smothers, and anxious -to hear Jo Daveiss. The trial itself was likely to be one of surpassing interest and remarkable singularity. Only two lawyers would appear, and they were brothers. As soon as the sheriff had made proclamation that the "court was open," Smothers tendered himself in discharge of his bond, and took a seat within the bar. John Daveiss, the Prosecuting Attorney for the district, was much interrupted in his duties during the day by repeated questions concerning his brother: "Where is he" "aWhen do you think he'll be here" "May be he will not come at all." And a variety of inquiries and speculations saluted him wherever he went. On Monday night Jo Daveiss staid at the house of Stephen Stateler, four miles from Hartford, and on Tuesday morning he and Stateler walked into town. Court was already in session, and was devoting the usual hour to motions. Stateler and Daveiss sat upon a bench in a remote corner, engaged in conver- sation. Stateler was much the taller man of the two, but they were dressed alike in blue jeans, and to all appearances were a couple of sensible farmers. Stateler had no idea that he was talking to Jo Daveiss, but still he was strangely fascinated by his company. When Judge Broadnax had disposed of the motions, he opened the docket and called the case of the Commonwealth versus William Smither, alias Bill Smothers. John Daveiss was up stairs with the Grand Jury, and of course made no response to the call. State- ler's companion left him and took a seat by the side of his client. Smothers, who was not in the least surprised at the course of his lawyer, shook him warmly by the hand. Broadnax becoming im- patient directed the sheriff to sumnmon the attorney for the Com- monwealth. John Daveiss walked down stairway, and with his papers in. his hand stepped in the doorway where he had a short conference with his witnesses. Broadnax repeated the call of the case with emphasis, and said he wished to be advised if the Commonwealth was ready. John Daveiss, stepping inside the bar, said he believed he would not apply for a continuance, although one important witness had not yet arrived; that he might come during the progress of the trial, and he reserved the privilege of takings his testimony. " What say you, Mr. Smothers" said his honor. Tile shrill voice of Jo Daveiss answered, "We are ready for the defense." 7e, HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. John Daveiss, recognizing the voice of his brother, embraced him affectionately, and having introduced him to Broadnax and the bar, proceeded to impanel a jury. The evidence in the main was in accordance with the fact already stated. Jo Daveiss made no labored effort at cross-examination, but permitted the witnesses to make their statements in their own way, sometimes putting a sin- gle question to elicit an explanation. When the attorney announ- ced that the testimony was closed in behalf of the Commonwealth, Jo Daveiss exchanged a few words with Smothers, and then rose and said, that his client, from motions of delicacy, had positively refused to introduce his sister, who was the only witness that could state anything material to the defense; that the prosecuting at- torney might proceed with his argument to the jury. By the feel- ing manner in which he made this simple statement, he seemed already to have gained the vantage ground. But John Daveiss was a man of no ordinary ability, and knowing that he had to cope with one of the greatest advocates of this country or the world, he put forth his full strength in his opening speech, endeavoring to forestall the impression which had always attended the powerful efforts of his brother. The evidence was arranged in a masterl manner, and he closed by a spirited and strong appeal to the jury to discharge their sworn duties honestly and faithfully, exhorting them to disregard alike the fame and passion of the orator who was to follow him, and assuring them that whilst the wicked might re- joice at acquittal, all good men would say amen to the condemna- tion and execution of a marauder, an outlaw, an assassin and a murderer. That wonderfully eloquent and strangely eccentric man, Jo Da- veiss, then rose to address the jury. It was his ambition to do everything after a fashion that nobody else in the world ever had attempted. He was never known to ride to a court-house, but made his circuit on foot, whilst a negro boy accompanied him on horseback, carrying his papers and clothing in a pair of saddle- bags. His manner, his style, his tactics at the bar, were all his own, and they all lie buried with their master in the field of Tippe- canoe. No fragment of a speech of his remains to-day; and from the erring and fading memories of men we derive our only ideas of the inspiration that moved upon the feelings and swayed the passions, until he could drive his triumphal car over any obstacle that might oppose his onward course. Tradition furnishes only a dim outline of his speech in defense of Smothers, which was prob- 71 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. ably the greatest forensic effort of his life. It was made for a friend, without hope of reward, and the whole power of mind, body and soul were poured forth in his cause. He commenced as if he had a fee to assist in the prosecution. He reiterated the strong points in the attorney's speech, and of- fered additional arguments in favor of conviction. The friends of the accused began to whisper that he was a snake in the grass, and that he had come to help his brother, and the eyes of Smothers were raised in calm surprise to the face of his counsel. But Daveiss went on urging that an acquittal, under all the circumstances, would be a monstrous outrage upon law and justice, and insisting that the jury ought, without hesitation, to bang the criminal. Adopt- xng all the epithets which had been so liberally bestowed, he called upon them to hang the mat auder, hang the outlaw, hang the assas- sin, hang the murderer. Proof or no proof, let the hangman pro- ceed on his mission of strangulation. That such, in effect, was the common reasoning of prosecuting attorneys, and lie had been repeating in substance what had fallen from the gentleman who preceded him; but the law was es- tablished upon principles precisely of an opposite character. He dwelt upon the tenderness and mercy of the law, and the safeguard it threw around the life and liberty of the citizen. That malice, premeditated malice, was an essential ingredient in making out a case of murder, and without it there was no murder. That if the killing was in sudden heat, it was manslaughter; and if the blow was given in self-defense, or in defense of family and home, then it became a virtue, and was no crime at all. Without a note he reviewed the evidence from beginning to end, calling the names of the witnesses as he went, and contended that the Commonwealth had failed to prove that his client had slain the deceased. That he was found dead in the house of the prisoner at the bar. but no man had seen the prisoner inflict the wound. That circumstances, however conclusive they might appear, were frequently deceptive. I-le read a case in the English Reports where an innocent man had been executed upon circumstantial evidence even stronger than that before the jury, and took the po- sition that the unscrupulous and vindictive prosecutor was guilty of murder, and that the twelve jurors were his aiders and abetters, because they did not require that positive and undeniable proof which leaves no room for a reasonable doubt. That if, in truth, it was the hand of Smothers that directed the blade, the facts in the 72 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. case warranted the conclusion that the other was the aggressor. That the prisoner was a man of sense and a manl of prudence, and never would have sought an encounter with a giant, whose physi- cal force was so great that lie had never found an equal; and who had a host of thirty comrades who would have rushed to his call and staked their lives in the quarrel. That the deceased was the aggressor in the beginning, and it was a fair inference that lie so continued to the end. That unbidden he had invaded the precincts of the prisoner's home, and in return for civility and hospitality, had offered insult and injury. That his foul, false tongue had aimed to fix the seal of infnamy upon the spotless tablet of a maiden sister's fame. That when his companions, impelled by repentance and remorse, had left the house, he lingered upon the spot. That if Smothers had slain him, he slew him in the holy cause of religion and of virtue, and that the King of Heaven had strengthened the arm that drove the pointed steel to his heart. He paid an eloquent and glowing tribute to the brave pioneers, who, by their toil, sweat and blood, had won the great valley of the Mississippi from the Indians, and consecrated it to agriculture, to commerce and to the arts. He denounced in terms of the bitterest indignation the deep ingratitude of the Government which suffered them to languish and die in poverty and neglect, whilst all its favors and patronage were lavished upon fawning sycophants and cringing parasites and flatterers, who knelt and worshiped at the footstool of power. That a golden crown had been tendered to Julius Cesar for his victories in Gaul, and for the addition of that province to the Roman territory. That these men had conquered an empire thrice as great and thrice as fertile as Gaul; and n either the charity, nor the bounty, nor thejustice of the Government had ever induced it to bestow upon one of them so much as an iron skillet. That a representative of that Government was here to-day appeal- ing to a jury of the country for the blood of one of the bravest, because he had stood upon the threshold of his rude hut, which was his castle in the eyes of the law, and had defended his family against the licentious and wanton insults of a blackguard and ruffian. Were he in place of his client he would leave his Govern- ment, and seek " some boundless contiguity of shade, where the rumor of oppression and of wrong might never reach him more." That if Smothers had to die, it was meet and appropriate that he should die at Hartford. Hartford had been the theater of his valor, and Hartford should be the scene of his execution. That 73 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. he came with the party that erected the first fortification; that his hand dug the ditch and planted the palisade; and when the Indi- ans besieged and fired upon you from stump, bush and tree, whose aim was deadliest and whose rifle rang clearest in your defense and when they were defeated and turned their backs in retreat, who was fleet-footed enough to lead the van in the pursuit Who hovered around them like a destroying spirit until he had dyed the waters of your rivers in their blood Who trailed them to their homes beyond the prairies, and restored your stolen property without ever receiving one cent in compensation That whatever falsehoods may have been invented and circulated against his client, the forked tonaue of slander itself had never charged that hit soul had been stained by the sin of avarice. That with ample opportnnities of securing an immense landed estate, there was not a foot upon the earth that lie could call his own. That while others had en- riched themselves by speculation, peculation, violence and fraud, the poverty of Smothers was a vindication of the sterling integrity of the man. That his public service needed no rehearsal. That Isaac Shelby, in a conversation, had endorsed the heroic conduct of the "boy Bill Smothers " at King's Mountain. That he carried in his pocket an. honorable discharge from General Green, after the great battle of Eutaw. That after he came to the West, the hills and valleys and the rivers had witnessed activity that never tired, eyes that never slept, and courage that never flinched in the hour of danger. That if they met the demands of the Government official by the sacrifice of the life of the prisoner, let the martyr- dom occur on the mound on which we stand; let the last glance of the departing soldier rest upon the scene where in the vigor of manhood he strove to give peace and security to your homes and firesides; and as his slender form swings in the air, take a long and a last look at the truest and boldest man that ever raised an arm in your defense. In his charge to the jury, Judge Broadnax himself approved the able lawyer and the upright man. Forgetting the many an- noyances of Smothers, he exhorted the jury to look in mercy upon the prisoner, and to give him the benefit of every reasonable doubt. The jury, after a retirement of ten minutes, brought in a verdict of "not guilty." Smothers invited his counsel to go home with him, and Daveiss accepted the invitation. He was so well pleased with the country around Yellow Banks that he settled the place afterward owned 74 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. by James Rudd, and planted the orchard which stands upon the slope of the hill. His brother, John Daveiss, not long afterward commenced opening the farm upon which the Crntchers subse- quently resided, and now owned by Mr. Lostetter, and lived there for many years. The speech of Jo Daveiss opened to the mind of Smothers a new field of thought and a new object of enmity. All his private and personal animosities were forgotten in the disgust and indig- nation which he felt toward' his Government. Hitherto he had regarded bear-hunting and Indian-fighting as the greatest pleasures of his existence; but he now reflected that he had expended the flower of his youth and the strength of his manhood in destroying wild beasts and savages, that he might increase the power and re- sources of a Government which had sought his life; and that that Government, with means beyond his power of computation, had failed to make the slightest provision for his wants, and would neglect him to the end. The voice of Jo Daveiss ever sounded in his ears that he ought to seek some shade where he would be free from oppression and from wrong. Brooding in silence over such subjects, he came to the deliberate conclusion that a proper self respect required him to leave the territory of the United States. When he arrived at this conviction he confided his purpose to no one, but began to make necessary preparations for his depart- ure. He had always felt a strong partiality for Bob Tarlton and other friends on Rough Creek, and lie could not think of going without seeing them; and to make the visit as pleasant as possible he proposed a big bear-hunt. In company with Husk and Glenn, lie started with his dogs to go directly to the house of Tarlton. He found Tarlton and his friends in a grand spree. After spend- ing a day with them, they all started on a hunt, which lasted sev- eral days. They succeeded in killing a monstrous bear, which they quartered and took to their camp at the Falls of Rough. On his return to his home, Smothers commenced making active preparations for his departure. About the first of February he went to the house of his brother James, who lived near Blackford, to spend a night with bin and bid him a last adieu. When he announced his intention, his brother, overwhelmed by the sudden shock, gave free vent to his sorrow. He considered their separa- tion the greatest calamity that could have befallen him. He clung to him and insisted on going with him. Bill remonstrated with him, " Jim, be a man. If I had been hung at Hartford, I should 75 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. not have drawn a sigh nor shed a tear, and I don't like to see yon crying as if you were a woman or a child. " When Smothers had taken leave of his sister and embraced his brother's children, le stepped out of the door and saw his brother James leading a couple of horses from the stable, and informed him that all hands were going to accompany him home. They re- mained with him several days. One day at dinner Smothers in- formed his brother that he wished to start the next morning at sunrise. Rising from the table they took an affectionate farewell James and family returned home, and the next morning Smothers, with his three dogs, stepped into his skiff, and they were shoved off by Husk. After a prosperous voyage of two weeks, Smothers landed at New Orleans. He spent one day in that city in purchasing ammu- nition and embarked on the next, descending the Mississippi toward the delta. Ile passed through the right hand mouth of that river and entered the Gulf of Mexico; hugging the shore, he rowed along in the direction of Texas. After two or three deten- tions he rowed into Galveston Bay about the first of May, and spent a month on the Island of Galveston-the only quiet month he had known for forty years. He again started on his journey and this time landed at the mouth of Yeagua Creek, where he began to look about for a permanent home, He selected a place forty miles from the spot where le landed, a place combining more advantages than any other in the country. For fifteen years Smothers trod the wilderness alone, except an occasional meeting with an adventurer like himself who was will- ing to brave the dangers in order to enjoy the pleasures of the chase; and then he made it convenient to separate as soon as possi- ble, believing that it was safest to be alone. He was satisfied with his manner of life,' but it was his destiny to return to the habits of civilized life, and in view of his age he did not regret the change. One of his daughters, Mrs. Berry, a woman of a kind and affec- tionate disposition, was devotedly attached to her father, and induced her husband to follow him to Texas, that she might at least provide for some of his wants. The tears streamed from her eyes as she beheld his emaciated form and tottering steps. She made every effort and used every argument in her power to induce him to make herhouse his home that she might care for him in his old age. But her importunate attentions wearied him, and he declared he would never go to see her again as he could have no 76 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. peace in her house. He was very fond of his grandchildren and spent a great deal of time in play with them. At last Smothers told his daughter that some friends from the Brassos had promised to be at his house early in the fall and that no consideration would induce him to be absent on their arrival. A presentiment that she was seeing her father for the last tine overwhelmed her with sorrow at their separation. Even the fortitude of Smothers was ishaken by this manifestation of filial affection. Early in October his friends started to take the hunt with Smothers. They hitched their horses near a spring, walked up the hill and got over the yard fence. The dogs sallied forth to resist intrusion upon their prostrate master, but they were quieted upon hearing familiar voices. When they entered the house they saw the form of Smothers extended upon a bear skin. He wore a white woolen cap, but his locks and his beard were whiter still. His tomahawk was belted to his side and his open palm rested gently upon the back of his gun which stood in the corner. The active limbs were stiff and cold. The tongue that had urged on the strife was mute. The pulse that had beaten high in the van of bat- tle had ceased to throb. The devoted friend, the implacable enemy, the lion-hearted SMOTHERS WAS NO MORE. The hero of the foregoing history is thus noticed by the cele- brated Washington Irving in his " Experiences of Ralph Ring- wood," who was Governor Duval, of Florida. The latter was hunting in the wilds near Yellow Banks, when he saw a stranger, and the following conversation ensued: "What are you after" cried he. "I Those deer," replied I, pettishly; ' but it seems as it they never stand still." Upon that he burst out laughing. " Where are you from " said he. "From Richmond." "What! in Old Virginny" "The same." "And how on earth did you get here " " I landed at Green River from a broad-horn." " And where are your companions " " I have none." "What! all alone" "Yes." "Where are you going" Anywhere." "And what have you come for " " To hunt." " Well," said lhe, laugh- ingly, "you'll make a real hunter; there's no mistaking that! Hlave you killed anything" "Nothing but a turkey; I can't get -within shot of a deer; they are always running." "11Oh, I'll tell you the secret of that. You're always pushing forward, and starting the deer at a distance, and gaze at those that are scampering; but you must step as slow and silent, and cautious as a cat, and keel) your eyes close around you, and look 77 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. from tree to tree, if you wish to get a chance at deer. But come, go home with me. My name is Bill Smothers; I live not far off; stay with me a little while and I'll teach you how to hunt. " I gladly accepted the invitation of honest Bill Smothers. We soon reached his habitation, a mere log hut, with a square hole for a window, and a chimney made of sticks and clay. Here he lived with a wife and child. He had " girdled " the trees for an acre or two around, preparatory to clearing a space for corn and potatoes. In the meantime he maintained his family entirely by his rifle, and I soon found him to be a first-rate huntsman. Under his tutelage I received mn first effective lessons in " woodcraft." After I had passed ten or twelve days with Bill Smothers, I thought it time to shift my quarters, for his home was scarce large enough for his own family, and I had no idea of being an incumbrance toc any one. I accordingly made up my bundle, shouldered my rifle, took a friendly leave of Smothers and his wife, and set out in quest of a Nimrod of the wilderness, one John Miller, who lived alone, nearly forty miles off, and who I hoped, would be well pleased to have a hunting companion. 78 CHAPTER III. LIFE AND TIMES OF ROBERT TRIPLETT. The substance of this chapter is extracted from a remarkably interesting and valuable work entitled "Roland Trevor," which is in fact an autobiography of Mr. Triplett; and as it gives so much early history pertaining to this region of Kentucky, we feel justi- fied in publishing the following extracts in this connection. The first several paragraphs we quote entire, as they embody the max- ims of his life, and seem to be as valuable as the noted sayings of "Poor Richard." "The life of every man contains a lesson to his successor which may be of value if properly written out. It is a chart, showing where the shoals and breakers lie which produce failures in his en- terprises as well as where the deep and smooth waters are found in the sea of prosperity. There are few who have arrived at the age of fifty and have been prosperous, who could not be more so if they had their lives to pass over again, and quite as few who, hav- ing been unfortunate, cannot look back and see the causes to which they owe their misfortunes. A father, then, who has the time, should furnish his son with this chart while his mind is yet in that pliant condition which adapts it to receive the lessons of experi- ence; before a dogmatic self-will has impressed him with an idea of his own smartness which makes him deaf to the instruction of others. "TThe most important lesson which my experience has taught me is the conviction that the human mind is progressive in all its stages, and that upon no subject has it ever filled the measure of knowledge to be obtained therein. The conceited, therefore, who turn from instruction under a belief that they have nothing more to learn upon any subject, only show the shallowness of their un- derstandings. The mind very quickly determines from hearing a lecturer whether there is a p)robability of adding anything to the store of knowledge already possessed on any given subject, and if not, it would be waste of time to listen to him; but one should not, therefore, cease to make inquiries through more intelligent sources. "In politics, religion, medicine, and many other sciences, cer- (79) HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. tain sects have formed their opinions and will hear nothing to shake them. flow is it possible that the mind can learn if the book of knowledge is closed When I observe a man listening with respect to opinions not in accordance with his own as if he gave due weight to them and wished to ascertain what merit they were entitled to, and what he can gather from them to improve his own stock of knowledge, I consider that he has a well-balanced mind; one possessed of natural strength, and capable of gathering strength as it goes. There are, indeed, very few minds of this character that are not of the first order:. If, after having heard all that is to be said, although dissenting in opinion, a man gives full weight to all the arguments that deserve it, setting them forth in their strongest light, and even adding others in support of the views which have been given as suggested by those of the speaker, but still, in a decorous manner, showing why they fail to convince him, I naturally lean to that man. I am satisfied there is no prejudiee about him; that he is in search of light, of truth, ofjustice, -in a word, a well-bred gentleman; for, whether he comre from the cottage or the palace, he is one of nature's noblemen. If schools and parental teaching have not made him a gentleman, nature has. The opinions of such a man are always listened to with respect. They always have great weight, and the author will hold friends wherever he goes; such a man will make proselytes. But, on the contrary, if a man listen with an apparent anxiety to detect you in a false position, in - slip of language, showing that his object is victory in argument and not to elicit truth, refusing to admit self- evident facts or reasonable influences, requiring proof of what a candid mind ought to admit, indeed, leaving an impression on his adversary that he is not inclined to deal fairly,-that man tmay exhibit his ingenuity, his tact, his skill in argument, but lie leaves an impression on his adversary of.a very unenviable kind, that he is lacking in candor, frankness, honesty, nobleness. There are many grades of all these qualities, and if I had to select a man to transact mny business on account of his honesty, and one should be recommended as standing unexceptionably with the world, who suited ine in all other qualifications, if I were to hear him offer unfair arguments I would not employ him, because the honest heart can do nothing unfair. I-e who will make up an unfair account in argument will do it in dollars and cents whenever a sufficient temptation offers. "Once in conversation with a distinguished politician who aimed to be a leader, 'I admitted that on a certain point a political oppo- 80 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. nent was right (he and I agreed in politics); 'Oh, no, no,' said he, 'you are wrong.' Eventually, however, I satisfied him that I thought I was right, if I failed to convince him. Not being able to convince me, he took me by the hand and said, 'You are a young politician, and some hints may be of service to you. Allow me to suggest that we never ought to concede that our opponents are right when they differ from the received doctrines of our party.' 'Why, Sir,' said I, 'that would be a monstrous principle to ad- mit. Each party then would maintain its ground from the mere love of opposition. Every member of each would have his opinions molded for him by his leaders; he would be a mere machine, and not an intelligent being. I shall never subscribe to such opinions, sir, and hope our party will not.' From that moment I lost all re- spect for this man, and he finally forfeited the respect of his party. There is a set of hardened political jockeys who laugh at the idea of political honesty, and view any man's pretention to it as evidence of greenness and simplicity. But for my part I cannot conceive that a man can be morally honest and politically dishonest. If a man is honest at all, the principle prevails with him throughout. It will not travel with him through morality, and then leave him in politics or religion. "Honesty consists in never acting unfairly, whether in trade, politics or religion. Many an honest man has gone to jail for debt fairlv contracted, but which unexpected events made it impossible for him to pay; many a politician has greatly injured his country by misguided opinions fairly entertained; and many an honest man has incurred public odium from professing religious opinions which he sincerely believed. "The mind of the young should be honest; that is, open to light and willing to hear the truth and admit it. Every truth stored in the mind is future mental capital; and as it is said money begets money, growing and compounding in its growth in proportion to its aggregation, so do truths. Every addition to the mass of correct thinking strengthens the mind and adds to its power of collecting new truths, which finally constitute a mind so strong and clear that it has no false view of anything. On the Contrary, the man who aims only at controversial victory, and seeks only weapons, fair or unfair, to attain success, accepting the fair and unfair arguments of others wherever they can be found to answer his purpose, ceases from that time to strengthen his mind by accumulating truths; and such a mnan must always occupy a second- 6 81 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. ary stand. i do not mean to say that there are not smart and tal- ented men who are dishonest. But such men would have occupied a much more exalted position as men of talent had they been honest; for they lose the greatest aid to the attainment of a high order of talent in the lack of honesty; that aid which the heart gives to the head,-which makes eloquence so powerful and irresistible when there is a consciousness of right. "The young mind should learn to be charitable, and slow to condemn an opponent for difference of opinion, or for crime where there is lack of proof. This world is awfully uncharitable, and prone to condemn on the first accusation without investigating the justice of the charges. Hence, mischief-makers in society so often succeed in estranging friends from each other by starting reports in which there is no just foundation. The young heart, while it should not be so credulous as to be imposed upon, should be pre- disposed to a good opinion of human nature, otherwise its own good feelings will be corroded and hardened. While we allow that there is enough of baseness in the world to put us on our guard and give us reasonable caution, we should also allow that there are virtue and merit enough to open and warm our hearts. Happiness depends much on the sympathy of virtuous hearts. To allow that there is but little virtue in the world would be to leave the vir- tuous heart desolate indeed. Such is not the fact. There is much to authorize us in giving our confidence and affection, observing a reasonable prudence in doing so. In carrying out this idea I do not mean to say that a man must lend his money or his name fool- ishly to others. No friend would ask it beyond your ability con- veniently to spare it. To that extent a man may be justifiable, but certainly not further. An acquaintance will sometimes present himself with a note or bond, and say: ' I wish you to indorse this for me; it is a mere nominal thing; you will never hear of it again.' The nature of trade renders mutual aid sometimes neces- sary, and all who need it should, if practicable, make arrangements for reciprocal accommodations, securing each other for doing so. " There are, however, friends who, under certain circumstances, are entitled to our aid, when it would be ungenerous to refuse it; and where we can see that, without dishonesty, we are not very likely to lose we should give it. We are all sometimes so circu m- stanced as to render such aid necessary, and even at the hazard of losing we ought to give it. But never carry this friendship so far that, if you have to pay all, it will injure you. Many men keep no 82 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUTrY. account of their indorsements, and are finally ruined when they were not aware that they were liable as security to but a small amount. Let me now impress on you to open a security account the first time you put your name on paper for any man, and make this entry: 'Security Account to Bills Payable,' for this amount due on the - day of -, by A. B--, for whom I have in- dorsed -,." The father of Robert Triplett was a man of great energy and enterprise, and although he met with great reverses of fortune he never became disheartened. Previous to the last war with England he owned coal mines in Virginia, besides a valuable plantation; but the coming on of the war and the blockading of the Chesa- peake made bankrupt every coal-miner, himself among the rest. His limited means prevented his giving his son Robert the educa- tion which was customary for the sons of Virginia gentlemen to receive. He was well versed in the English branches and could write French with tolerable ease, but his education was not thor- oughly classical. This caused great humiliation to the mind of young Robert. At an early age he was put to live with a merchant in Richniond, a wholesale importer, without wages, but merely to learn business. A friend of this merchant, who was in the habit of calling there, was so well pleased with the manner in which Robert discharged his duties that he solicited his services in his own estab- lishment. As his employer had very little for him to do he offered no objection. Robert readily agreed to make the change and went to work with renewed energy. His new employer was a Scotch importer of salt, china, crockery, queen's-ware, wine, brandy, etc., all of which was sold by the pipe or crate. As he was remarkbaly fond of his ease, he very soon gave his business matters entirely into Robert's hands. As the time of the latter was not wholly occupied with his duties he spent most of his evenings in reading and study. He made it a rule to read at least 200 pages of solid matter every week. He even wrote out an epitome of the histories of Rome and Greece. His genius ran in the line of math- ematics. Mr. Triplett's first speculation was in the coal mines. There wvas an immense body of coal piled at his father's yard which he could do nothing with, as the English fleet lay in the Chesapeake, and it could not be exported. Robert observed that coal was 1 per bushel in Baltimore, and insurance twenty-five per cent. He asked and gained his father's consent to make an adventure in it. 83 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. He shipped 3,000 bushels and cleared about 550. He made one or two other adventures and was extremely successful. Soon after this he left his employer and went to work for a merchant at Nor- folk at a salary of 900 per annum. He gave nearly all his earn- ings to his father to relieve his embarrassments. In 1817 Mr. Triplett accepted an offer from Judge Bouldin, executor of the estate of David Rss, to come to Kentucky to set- tle up that estate. There were then no railroads, nor steamboats on- the Ohio except one or two that had commenced below the Falls. Horseback was the usual mode of traveling to the West. He made the trip to Frankport in sixteen days. Here he remained for some time in the discharge of the duties attendant upon his mission. About the year 1820 Mr. Triplett came to Owensboro in com- pany with an acquaintance. On arriving within twenty-five miles of the town his comnpanion informed him that they had reached the beginning of the great survey of M., B. Co., which extended six miles below Owensboro; thirty-one miles in length, and containing 160,000 acres. About three miles above the town they came in sight of the Ohio River which Mr. Triplett now saw for the first time. It was very full, nearly up to its banks on the Indiana side. The court-house had been built in Owensboro, and a number of cabins; but there were not more than two or three brick chimneys in the town. After his friend had completed his business they returned to Frankport. After making a complete digest of his Kentucky business, Mr. Triplett returned to Virginia, with the intention of joining his brother in business; but Judge Bouldin was very unwilling to dispense with his services and lhe was induced to continue. So he departed a second time for Frankport. About this time there was a moneyed crisis in Kentucky, and the "Independent Bank sys- tem" was introduced. This was giving a bank to almost every county in the State. Mr. Triplett foresaw a general bankruptcy of those institutions, ard wrote several essays, uinder fictitious signa- tures, to endeavor to stay the ruin, but all his efforts were vain. (This subject is treated more fully in the "Oatline History of Kentucky.") After the rising of the Legislature this year Mr. T. started for the Yellow Banks, to look into the land there, to see about getting possession of it and selling it. His first object was to survey out all the interfering claims, and ascertain how much of the land was clear in title, and what occupants were on it; then to have all that 84 This page in the original text is blank. w ---X , HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. was clear in title sectionized into tracts of from 200 to 400 acres, with an accurate description attached to each section of the land contained in it, with the probable value thereof, springs, imnprove- ments, etc., with the settlers thereon. Having obtained an honest surveyor for the purpose, he started him on the work. But new difficulties presented themselves which were likely to give him inuch trouble. The occupants refused to surrender the land; he had no leases from them, and they acknowledged no tenancy; bat they denied his right. The number of parties concerned would render a suit very troublesome, and it was important to avoid it if possi- ble. Most of the occupants were reasonable if left to themselves, but an effort was made to create resistance, and many were the "shooting " threats made if Mr. Triplett went on to certain lands. But he braved them all and no serious difficulty ensued. I-le en- countered one obstinate fellow who was afterward killed inl a street- fight in Owensboro. Mr. T. was successful in his undertaking at this point, and then returned to Frankfbrt. He proceeded to put in form the materials lhe had collected at Yellow Banks in regard to the entries of Ross and May, which lie had surveyed. They called to begin at the upper end of the Yellow Banks, about forty miles above Green River, and run to the lower end tliereof ;and back for quantity. He had had a front profile of the bank taken at the upper and lower end and at various intermediate points; had all neatly painted, and an argument framed to sustain the entry, which was in litigation. The large entry of May, Bannister Co. was also in litigation, but with a decision against them. On looking over the record and applying the facts which he knew of, Mr. Triplett saw there was a fatal defect, which had escaped notice. The ar- gument about the Yellow Banks entries was very long and com- plex. During this fall Judge Bouldin came Out to Kentucky, and Mr. Triplett gave him an exhibit of his work. Judge B. instructed him to abandon the entry of May, Bannister Co., and rely on the patent only. Mr. T. showed him the condition of every- thing at Yellow Banks, with which he seemed pleased; and in consequence of there being a large surplus in the entries of Ross May, which could not be held against an elder patent, he was advised to go to Washington City to see the Masons and endeavor to compromise with them, giving one half for the other. These things being settled, the Judge returned to Virginia. The papers, including many relating to titles of land, were in Cincinnati, and there it was necessary for Mr. Triplett to go to get 8,5 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. them. Havinog accomplished the object of his visit he returned to Frankfort, and having obtained the necessary powers, proceeded to Washington, where hle met the Masons; but none were authorized to act, so he failed in making the desired arrangement. He then returned to Frankfort, where he remained until the time for the sale at the Yellow Banks, when he went down. He had a large number of maps prepared of the sectionized land to be sold, with books of surveys, the lots numbered and described, so that with a map anyone could find any lot and examine it, and the sale and transfer by number was very simple and easy. Such land as he did not sell at auction he was ready afterward to sell in his office. A reference to his book of surveys gave him quantity, quality and value. lHe had contracts all printed, as also deeds, bonds and every necessary paper, with the prices on the face of each tract; and after he would sell a tract of land, have all the papers signed, and the whole transaction closed in thirty minutes. During his stay at Yellow Banks Mr. Triplett put up at Mrs. Adams's tavern; and although she had not a brick chimney to her house, she had everything neat and tidy, and her meals were well cooked; indeed, everything as good and comfortable as her means would admit of, and three pretty daughters to set off the whole to advantage. As long as Mr. Triplett kept his affairs within his own control, he went on regularly upward until his income reached 7,000 or S,000 per rnnum. But as soon as business expanded until it became necessary to employ agents, although well planned, and upon a basis which in all probability promised success, it then commenced losing, and so continued until a greater portion of what had been previously made was sunk. The next step was a speculation in coal. His friend G. came with him to the Yellow Banks and was delighted at the prospect. Coal had been discovered in their Bonharbor hills. The coal, for which lie purchased the property, was only a thin vein at the river, but a hunter, seeing them working this, said he could show them a better vein in the hills, which he did, to the depth of four and a half feet. And from this to the Ohio, three quarters of a mile they made the first railway, in 1826, which was made in Kentucky and, probably, in the West. The next year they commenced delivering coal to steamboats, being the first attempt below the falls, if not the first attempt in the West, to use coal as a steam- boat fuel. 86 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. About this time (1826 or 1827), Mr. Triplett married Miss Pe- gram. He first settled in Frankfort, but his presence being very much needed in Haphazard, a place in Daviess County where he had previously purchased land, a portion of which had to be drained to make it of any value, he decided to move thdre. The firm was losing money by their distilleries; nothing went well with them, and they stopped the largest, still continuing one and the steam-mill. Everything looked discouraging. There was a ray of hope let in from the coal mines. Their first experiment had been profitable, and it was determined that Mr. B., one of the partners, should go to New Orleans to make arrangements to try to get it into use among the planters or sugar-makers. He author- ized an agent to act in the business, and returned, and they proceeded to send down coal, offering it for fifty cents a barrel. The experiment was eminently successful, every load being sold before it arrived. Fortune showered so many favors upon them that they proceeded to make arrangements for the next year's work upon a very large scale. In February, 1829, a difficulty occurred with their distiller. As this event and its results are very interesting, we give the details in Mr. Triplett's own words: "The vile business seemed to go wrong in every way. I found our distiller had been cheating us and charged him with it. This brought on a fist-fight, the only one I had ever been engaged in since leaving school. He was a powerful man, over six feet high, and would have gotten the better of me had we not been parted. My brother-in-law, Dr. P., being present, interposed, and I left the distillery, and with him went down to our office, pretending to be entirely pacified, and laughing heartily at the occurrence as a good joke; but as soon as I had thrown the Doctor off his guard and got him to leave me, I returned to the distillery with a toma- hawk, determined to drive the distiller out. But, fortunately for me, he had gone, for he was a desperate character, and with his mash-stick would have been an overmatch for me with my toma- hawk. I now had the distillery closed and the business stopped. The distiller threatened to sue me for violation of contract, but we compromised the matter by agreeing to leave it to arbitration. In this arbitration occurred a difficulty which caused me circumstan- tially to relate the above affair with the distiller, which otherwise would not have been worth naming. Mr. T. V., the most promi- nent lawyer in our district, a man of naturally good heart 87 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. but of most ungovernable passion, was my adversary's lawyer, and, in the course of his speech spoke of the ' stratagem of Mr. T.' When the argument was over I remarked to him that he had used an expression which he must withdraw. ' What expression' said he. I replied that he had accused me of stratagem in my dealings with the distiller. ' I did not allude to you,' he replied, 'I meant your brother's stratagem of argument.' My brother was my lawyer in the case. ' Ab, well,' I replied, ' I am glad to hear it.' 'But,' he rejoined, ' I am always responsible for what" I say.' "About six months before this when T. and myself were taking some depositions, he had been needlessly harsh, as 1 thought, on my witness. I took him. out to give him a friendly talk about it. His usual mode of proceeding in such cases was harsher than I was disposed to bear with; but he was so accustomed to it that he did not see any harm in it. We were neighbors and I was anxious to keep on friendly terms with him. So I told him, and that to this end nmore courtesy would be necessary on his part. He took this as a threat and said he would not be threatened by any man. I told him that so far from its being designed as a threat, I designed by it to avoid any cause of quarrel if possible. But, as I had missed my object, and to the public, if we did quarrel, there might be a semblance of my being in the wrong, I did not intend then to let him draw me into a quarrel; but at any other time when he felt inclined to seek a quarrel with me he should be gratified. Thus we parted, and we were both on the lookout for the slightest provo- cation. Under other circumstances I should not have deemed his remark sufficiently offensive to require me to call him to account for it, nor lie would not have refused to let his explanation stand. "S eeincg now that I had mistaken him, and although determined not to take the shadow of an insult from him (especially as he held the whole country in dread, for when in a passion he lost all control of himself), I was still anxious to avoid a quarrel if I could do so with credit. When he said: 'I am always responsible for what I say,' I looked him earnestly in the face and replied, 'Mr. T., while I believed you intended to insult me, I intended to call you to account for it. When I perceived my errorl I was anxious that the difficultv should go no farther. Your explanation was satis- factory, and under that explanation there is no need for you to hold yourself accountable; there is nothing to be accounted for. Let me beg of you now to let this matter stop where it is' He replied that he withdrew his explanation. I walked up to him with a view 88 HISTORY OF DA V1ESS COUNTY. to make a personal attack upon him, when my brother cried out, 'Good God! Robert, you are not going to strike a lame man.' I halted, and looked at him and said, 'I will not strike you, sir, nor will I challenge you, abhorring duelling as I do, but nevertheless I will accept a challenge from you, and that you may not be without provocation for one, I tell you that I only now spare you in con- sideration of your lameness. Now challenge me if you dare.' Our friends jumped in between us, several taking hold of him, and several hold of me. To those who attempted to hold me, I remarked in the language of a man of whom I had read, ' One man can hold me; the balance of you go and hold Mr. T.' " In d te time the challenge came, and was accepted, to fight as soon as I could provide myself with arms. I sent to Hardinsburg for a pair of pistols, said to be the best known. But T. had been there before me. One friend then jumped on a steamboat and went to Louisville, where he found a fine pair belonging to Mr. J. D. B. Another went to New Madrid, where he knew there was a pair which Burr had had on the field with Hamilton. Both pairs were obtained. and so good were they that I did not regret failing to obtain those in Hardinsburg. I now fixed the day for the fight, accepting at ten paces back to back, whirl and fire between the words, "fire " and " three," the seconds to count delib- erately one, two, three. T. objected to standing back to back, as he was lame and could not turn as quickly as I could. I then, waived that condition and agreed to stand face to face. He having the advantage of me in practice, I took time to make myself even with him, and soon found that I was a first-rate marksman, and heard that he was the same. The victory then would fall to him who could shoot quickest; therefore my efforts were to learn to shoot quick. During the interim before fighting 1 was daily engaged with B. in settling up our business, and the evening before in making the final arrangements. B. remarked, it was strange to see a man writing his will, and making such arrange- ments while yet in good health. "The next day we were to meet at a designated point on the Indiana shore at eleven o'clock. When about to embark to cross over, Judge H., one of my seconds (each had two), asked me how I felt. I replied, ' Strangely indifferent; ' I can hardly realize that I am going to fight a duel.' ' But' said he, ' you must realize it, for there is but little time left now.' I then remarked, 'Before we go over, hang up a tape against that tree and let me try my hand.' 819 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. He objected, saying, ' If you make a bad shot it will affect your spirits.' 'No,' I replied, 'it will not; hang it up.' It was done; at ten steps I took a shot and cut the tape about half an inch below the black spot. ' That will do,' said he. Considering the probable dreadful result, to kill or be killed, manv would say it argued great want of feeling to go about such a business so calmly.- But if the reader has ever been engaged in a duel, if he has had time for reflection before it occurred, and his conscience is at rest as to having used every effort to avoid it, he will then see that the thing being inevitable, and his own safety depending on his shooting his adversary, no question arises in his mind which'of the two to choose. Persons may say that they would as soon be shot as to shoot an adversary. That was not my case; I very much preferred to shoot my adversary. And it was important to my success in doing so, that the awful responsibility of the act should be shut out from my mind as much as possible. I would not think of it but in one way, that it was necessary to my own safety. I had no feeling of revenge to gratify, and when I went upon the ground I had no more animosity against Thomp- son than against any other man on the ground. When we took our positions and were asked if we were ready, I answerd, I No.' I wished to see if my nerves were steady and took aim at a lump of snow on a wood-pile. Although there was snow upon the ground, and it was dead of winter,-February,-yet I felt a warm glow and a suppleness of nerve which was extraordinary. If Providence would take part with either party in a matter like this, I should think I had his support, for never was my touch so sensitive, my flesh so pliable, nor my aim so quick and accurate as at this lump of snow. I felt as though I could put my ball just where I pleased; and unfortunately for Thompson there was a grease spot very vis- ible just where I wished to aim. " Being satisfied with my aim, I turned to the second, who had asked if we were ready, and said, 'Now I am ready.' Thompson was asked ifl he was ready, and answering ' yes,' the word fire was given. Ouir fires were almost simultaneous, mine a little first. For a moment Thompson stood erect, and, although my aim was good, I began to think I must have missed him. But presently a black scowl caine over his countenance, he threw his pistol on the ground before him and said, 'I am a dead man!' Now, all the feelings which had been strained up were relaxed, and my first impulse was to go to his aid. But as I advanced, his second, Mr. 90 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. G. called to me to keep my post; that Mir. Thompson might wish another fire. I returned, but in a few moments his other second, Judge 0. called out that Mr. Thompson was satisfied; he would be unable to take another fire. My ball had entered just under his right nipple, passed through his body, and lodged in his left arm without breaking the skin except where it entered. It was not supposed he could live twenty-four hours. But he did, and finally recovered; and although at first, for some time, we were not friendly, yet ultimately we made up and were good friends. And what was singular, this shot cured him of a chronic rheumatism of ten years' standing, and of his lameness. He said I was a first- rate surgeon, though rather a rough operator. Thompson was a singular man, one of violent passions; sorry for it when the passion was over, and used to tell his friends that he could not control himself, and that he was certain he would some day be killed,-a correct prediction, for he was afterward killed in the streets of Owensboro in 1863, by a man whom lie had attacked. H-e was a nan of fine talents and fine qualities, away from his ungovernable pas- sions. The man who killed him was a workman for a carpenter, not particularly sensitive; but the event so preyed upon his conscience that lie gradually pined away and died in about a year after with no complaint but remorse. This put an end to the distilling business. Both distilleries soon went to wreck, and a large sum of money was entirely sunk. Mr. Triplett felt some consolation in the reflection that, if they had been engaged in the abominable business, they had lost enough to punish them for the sin, and that their account with Ileaven was nearly balanced; but at that time it was not considered a discreditable business. They now made arrangements for a tremendous business in coal, and so brilliant seemed the prospect that the loss by the distilleries seemed but a trifle. They turned into building boats at their steam- mill, turning out one a week, contracted with other mills to build all they could, and various points were all alive building boats for them. They were in high spirits, imagining they were making from 150 to 200 a day. But an event occurred to blast their prospects, as unexpected as would have been an earthquake to sink all their coal mines, namely, a frost, which destroyed the sugar- cane after it had ripened-an event that had not occurred before for twenty years. When, however, by great efforts the evil caused by this misfort- une seemed to be remedied by finding a market among the tow- 91 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. boats, and they again renewed their shipments, a belief that the heat of the coal caused the boilers to burn out induced the tow- boats to abandon it; and here was a second great disaster which almost prostrated them, and which it was beyond the power of man to foresee. Determined to die with their colors flying, how- ever, and believing that they need not fear another frost, and that the idea of burning out the boilers would be deemed nonsensical by the next season, they made another struggle and shipped a con- siderable quantity. But the planters would not buy, and captains of ships would not employ tow-boats which burned coal because the smoke blackened their sails. They were now effectually done for and dissolved partnership. After this Mr. Triplett went to his original business and rapidly recovered the ground lhe had lost, but the proceeds had to go to pay dues on his own and the firm's lands; ultimately he began to emerge, and with most of the property with which he started. He next went into a Texas speculation with an apparent profit of over 90,000, which induced him to make a purchase amount- ing to 20,000 acres; and the Government of Texas, failing to carry out its contract, again involved him in embarrassments from which it took a long time to recover. After a long struggle, however, his prospects began to brighten. Indeed, they seemed so flattering that he ventured to purchase a tract of land alongside of Bonharbor, which he wanted in order to command the whole coal field there. For this he gave 20,000, and cramped himself to make the first payment, confident that he would soon be in ample resources and easy again. But in this he was mistaken. Fortune was not yet tired of her pranks with him. Every thing went wrong with him- le became reckless, and his creditors concluded he was going to ruin. They sued him from all quarters, sold his property, until nearly every lot in Owensboro was gone, and he had owned more than half of the vacant property in the town. According to the laws of Kentucky, if land sold under execution does not bring two thirds its value, it may be redeemed in twelve months by paying ten per cent. per annum interest on the amount of sale. Mr. Trip- lett managed to redeem the lots which had been sold. At a sub- sequent period he sold Haphazard for 13,000, 1,000 acres of the best land in the county, on the Ohio River, one and a half miles from Owensboro, the mere buildings on which were worth more than half the money. In 1842 the tariff was raised, and an energetic impulse was given to the manufacturing business. Mr. Triplett owned the Bonharbor 92 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. 93 coal mines and 2,000 acres of land, beginning about two miles below Owensboro, possessing great advantages for manufacturing. He built a small woolen factory for jeans and linseys, and after- ward purchased cotton machinery to manufacture their warps. He attracted the custom of steamboats for his coal and with good suc- cess. He owned a vast amount of property ill various portions of the State, some of which he sold to advantage, and ultimately reached a point of independence. Robert Triplett died in Philadelphia, in 1853, with cancer in the face. He had nine children. His oldest daughter, Ann, mnarried J. Andrew White, of Petersburg, Va., and soon afterward died. Emily married Honorable George H. Yeaman, now of New York City. Virginia died a few years ago, unmarried. The oldest son, Robert, Jr., died at the age of about twenty-one, in January, 1852, of erysipelas. CHAPTER IV. ORGANIC, LEGAL AND POLITICAL. Under the above caption we classify such historical matters as relate to the organization of the county, the officers and representa- tives of the county, political notes, election returns, the courts, and the bar. In the next chapter we give biographical sketches of the more prominent public men of the county, both of the past and of the present. As the public records are not complete in all departments, and the memory of the "oldest inhabitant" not quite able to give names and dates for every period back to the year one, there are a few blanks in some of the lists which we are not able to supply. ORIGIN OF T'HE C'OUNTY AND OF ITS NAME. Previous to 1780, Kentucky was a county of Virginia. In May this year it was divided into three counties-Jefferson, Fayette, and Lincoln; in 1784 Nelson County was formed out of Jefferson; in 1792, after Kentucky became a State, Hardin was formed frog Nelson County; in 1798 Ohio was formed from Hardin; in 1815 Daviess was formed out of Ohio; and in 1854 McLean County was formed from portions of Daviess, Muhlenburg and Ohio. Pre- vious to the latter date Daviess County extended south to Green River. At one time a small strip, containing about 150 settlers, was transferred front Ohio County to Daviess; in 1829 a piece was taken from Daviess in the formation of Hancock County; and about 1857 the western line of this county was moved about four miles down the river. The following act, creating the county of Daviess, was approved January 14, 1815: CHAPTER CXC.--And Aot foe the erection of a new county out of' the county of 0Ohio. SEC. 1. Be it endctcd by thre General Assembly of the Common- wteadth of Kentuticky, That from and after the first day of June next, all that part of the county of Ohio included within the fol- lowing bounds, to wit: Beginning at the mouth of Blackford's (94) HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Creek, thence up the same to the mouth of the Horse Fork, thence up the same, so as to include Joseph Wright, thence to the upper end of the Crane Pond, on Panther Creek, thence a straight line to the head of Buck Creek, so as to include Baxter Davis, crossing the Hammond Ferry road, at the forks of the said road and the Yellow Bank road, and down the same to Green River, thence down Green River to the Henderson County line, thence with said line to the Ohio River, thence up the same to the beginning- shall be one distinct county, and called and known by the name of " Daviess." A court for the said county shall be held by the jus- tices thereof on the second Monday in every month in which the Circuit Courts are not hereafter directed to be held. SEC. 2. Be it fizrther enacted, That the justices named in the commissions of the peace for said county of Daviess shall meet at the house of John Leaman, in said county of Daviess, on the first court day after the said division shall take place, and having taken the oaths prescribed by law, and a sheriff being legally qualified to act, the justices of the County Court shall proceed to appoint and qualify a clerk. SEC. 3. And be it further enacted, That Benjamin Fields, John Daveiss, David Glenn, Sr., John McFarland, Edward Hay- den and John Leaman, of said county of Daviess, be, and they are hereby, appointed commissioners to fix a place for the permanent seat of justice in the said county of Daviess, who shall meet at the time and place appointed for the first meeting of said justices, or as soon thereafter as the said commissioners can; and each having taken an oath before some justice of the peace to discharge the duties of a commissioner, in fixing on a seat of justice for the county of Daviess, without favor, affection, partiality or prejudice, according to the best of his skill and ability, they, or a majority of them, shall proceed to fix on a place for the permanent seat of justice for said county, having due regard to public convenience, of water and situation, as it respects the capacity of the land in said county for sustaining present and future population. And, having ascertained the place aforesaid, they shall certify under their hands the same to the County Court. And they, the said commissioners, for their services, shall be allowed each 2.00 per day for every day they shall necessa- rily be employed in performing their said duties, to be levied and paid out of the first county levy; and thenceforth the said County Court shall cause to be erected at such place the necessary public 95 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. buildings; and, until such buildings are erected, shall hold their several courts in the most convenient house to said place. Each court shall appoint its own clerk, a majority concurring therein; but a majority of those present on any court day may appoint a clerk pro tempore. SEC. 4. Be it farther enacted, That the Circuit Court for the county of Daviess shall be held annually on the second Monday in the months of April, July and October. SEC. 5. And be it further enacted, That it shall be lawful for the sheriff of the county of Ohio to collect and make distress for any public dues, and officers' fees, which shall remain unpaid by the inhabitants of the said county of Daviess at the time such division shall take place, and shall account for the same in the same manner as if this act had not been passed. And the courts of the county of Ohio shall have jurisdiction of all actions and suits, either in law or equity, which shall be depending before them at the time of such division; and shall determine the same, issue process and award execution thereon. SEC. 6. Be itfarther enacted, That the citizens of the said county of Daviess shall vote for members to serve in the GeneralAssem- bly, as joined with and making a part of the county of Ohio, in the same manlier as heretofore, until the next apportionment of the ratio of representation by the Legislature of this Common- wealth, except that the sheriff of said county shall meet the sher- iff of the county of Ohio on the first Friday after the election shall have closed at the court-house in Ohio County, and shall compare the polls and declare the election accordingly. SEC. 7. And be it further enacted, That it shall be the duty of the circuit judge belonging to the said district to attend and pro- ceed in the Circuit Courts of the said county. The above act was approved just three days after the battle of New Orleans. Had the act not been passed until after the news of Jackson's victory there had been received, this county might have been named after that hero. During the following month the Legislature passed a supple- mental act, making it the duty of the surveyor of Ohio County, by himself or his deputy, to run out and plainly mark the line between the counties of Daviess and Ohio, and report the same to the court of each county; and also making it the duty of the commissioners to return lists of taxable property to the clerk of Daviess County, etc. 96 HISTORY OF DAN IESS COUNTY. This county was named after the eminent lawyer and military hero, Joseph Hamilton Daveiss, a sketch of whom appears on a subsequent page; but, by a mistake in enrolling the bill creating the county, during its passage through the Legislature, the name was spelled " Daviess;" and consequently the name of this county has since been spelled differently from that of the great Daveiss and of his descendants and relatives. Other names in this State have similarly suffered; as, Green, after General Greene; Muhlenburg, from Rev. and General Muhlenberg; Calloway, from Colonel Callaway; Menifee from lIon. Richard EI. Menefee, etc. This patriot has been remembered in other States; as, Jo Da- veiss County, IlM.; Daviess County, or town, in several other States, etc. SrRVEYS. The original survey of the lands in this part of Kentucky, as in all the rest of the States, and even in all the older States, was done prior to the modern Government system of square-inile sections coincident with the cardinal points of the compass. Each tract of land was described with reference to adjoining tracts, and gen- erally had irregular boundary lines, which, of course, still exist. Several surveys were made, commencing at points' or centers re- mote from and independent of each other. Previous to 1792, when IKen-tuck-e " was under the Pagis of Virginia, that mother of States from time to time granted lands, sometimes large tracts, to her ex-soldiers, especially officers, of the Revolutionary war. These were called " military lands." Besides, she would also give "certificates," or "land warrants," to any other party, for a stipulated fee. Each possessor of a warrant was allowed to " locate " his land where he pleased; and although required to be very precise in the recorded descriptions of their tracts, they were often too illiterate to fulfill the requirements of the law. Each owner was required to bear the expenses of the survey, and different surveyors were employed, some of them careless, who would work outward from the respective localities until they came into conflict. Hence, as immigration poured in, conflicts of claims became numerous and vexatious. Sometimes good farms were made, and finally lost by subsequent surveys, even after as many as twenty years occupancy. In one instance, in this county, as many as four surveys covered the same piece of ground! One surveyor in this part of the State commenced on Green River, 7 97 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. another on the Ohio, another on Rough Creek, etc. The " Dela- port survey " below Owensboro was made by a Frenchman of that name, who, before completing his work, went to Philadelphia, fell in love with. an actress, and forever after abandoned the survey. On one occasion a surveyor was running a line along where the lresent jail is located, not knowing that he was within five miles of the Ohio River. Generally, however, in order to lighten the expenses and dimin- ish the annoyances of a survey, a number of warrants would be thrown togetlier,and parties would often settle by dividing the dif- ference. The lots which were first laid off in Rossbc'ro (now Owensboro). lay one fourth over upon Madison's survey, and the parties settled by taking alternate lots on each side of the line. Daviess County at present contains about 420 square miles of territory. In 1837 about five voting places were established in the county. UTnder the Constitution of 1850, requiring precise bound- ary lines of precincts, seven were described by the County Court in this county; in 1867 nine were laid out, and since then, two more. These are all described in their respective histories toward the lat- ter part of the volume. POLITICAL NOTES. The election returns, so far as they are now to be found on file in the office of the county clerk. are given on subsequent pages- complete returns for the county in this chapter and fragmentary returns in the respective precinct histories. During the days of Whiggism, Daviess County, in its aggregate vote, went sometimes one way and sometimes the other. It elected the Whig ticket 1816244, 1847-'8, 1850-'5; the American, or Know-Nothing, in 1856-'7; Union, 18612-'6 and Democratic all other years from 1845 to the present time. The first account we have of a local club being organized for the election of a Presidential candidate is that of the " Daviess County Clay Club," which was formed Feb. 22, 1844. Dr. Murray was elected President of the club, and addresses were delivered at the first meeting by Messrs. Weir, Johnson, Triplett and Me- Farland. An oyster feast was given afterward by Mr. Heath. The election of Aug. 2, 1847, was very exciting. The Whig candidates for Congress were numerous, namely: F. Peyton, J. II. Mcllenry, P. Gray, W. Green, and R. L. Waddell. Their eLaims were submitted to a convention, and R. L. Waddell, of 98 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Christian County, was selected. His Democrat opponent was Samuel Peyton, of Hartford, Ohio County, who was an advocate of the Mexican war and a defender of President Polk, while the former was opposed. The candidates for the Legislature were William Ill. Giitlith anidFinley W. Wall, both Whigs. The former had been a resident of this county more than thirty years, having come here, as he said, "when this region was a howling wilder- ness, and had seen it transformed to a smiling garden." Mr. Wall was only twenty-six years of age, but had many good qualities to commend him as a legislator. A greater number of votes were polled in this county than ever before-830 in Owensboro alone, and 1,700 in the county. Griffith, who also was opposed to the proposed Constitutional Convention, fell behind Wall (in favor of the Constitutional Convention) by eight votes in the county. Waddell received 770. to 916 for Peyton. From Bon Harbor about forty voters for Wall came up in a very large cart, with wheels about twelve feet high. and dirawn by nine yoke of oxen, and with banners streaming for Wall and Con- vention. Friends of both parties strained every nerve, and the old and the sick were all conveyed to the polls. The railroad tax, referred to under date of 1852 in the following table, was voted down in the county. It was for a road on the line of the present 0. N. road. In 1866-'7 the proposition carried. The year 1856 was the period of the K-now-Nothing victory in this county. An election of Representatives for the extra session of Congress was held on the 20th of J-une, 1861, in this district, then the Second. Captain James Jackson was the Union candidate, and John T. Bunch " Southern Rights." Jackson carried every county but Daviess, which gave Bunch l94 majority. About 1,700 votes were cast. The district gave Jackson 6,220 majority. At this election Kentucky gave 40,000 or 50,000 majority for the Union. In the election of Aug. 3, 1863, the ticket headed by C. A. Wickliffe was stricken from the poll-books as being disloyal, un- der an order from General Boyle, of the United States Army. The majority of George H. Yeaman, Union, over J. IL. McHenry, Southern Rights, was 298; in the district, over 5,000. The State Union ticket this year consisted of Bell (declined and T. E. Bram- lette substituted), Jacob, Harlan, Garrard, Page, Dawson, Steven- son, and John S. McFarland. It was elected. 99 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. The election of Aug. 1, 1861, was not influenced by any mili- tary interference. J. G. Harrison was the Union Whig, can didate for Sheriff, and A. J. lec.Atee the Union Democrat, whom the Southern Rigphts party supported, so far as they voted at all. IBut the election of August, 1865. was claimed by the Southern Rights maen to be under military control and a farce. Mr. Pettit, editor of the Mon;ftol. among many others, was refused the privilege of votin-, andl he commented severely upon the administration, claiming that several loyal Democrats were debarred at the polls. In O)wensboro a Federal soldier was stationed on each side of the door at the voting places. At the election of Aug. 6, 1866, the II Southern Rights" party was successful, as also at succeeding elections generally. Negroes were admnitted to the franchise in 1867, and althou(ghl their first vote. April 6, of that year, in Owensboro, was all given, except two, for the Ptepublican ticket, the Democratic success was greater than before for several yeads. The election of April 15, 1867, was held for the purpose of de- termining whether the county should subscribe 10,000 shares, sufficient to constitute a capital stock of 250,000, in aid of the Owensboro Russellville Railroad Company. The vote stood 1,231 for, and 1,039 against it. The ''presiding juclge" referred to ill one election was the title of the judge of the Quarterly Court, coiisistimig of the ten muagis- trates of the county, who had concurrent jurisdiction with the Cir- cuit Court in all except land cases. In 1s67 the " Common Pleas" Court was established, but was soon abolished. It had original civil jurisdiction, but not criminal. It was also a Court of Appeal from the Quarterly Courts. In 1869 the " additional tax" was that of a certain amount for common schools. Although defeated iTn the county, it was carried by the State. In 1872 Mr. J. G. McFarland was elected to fill Jo Thomas' unexpired term. In I876 the "road law" voted upon was that which referred to working time -roads. It failed of adoption. In 1881 the two cents per 100 was for colored schools. Although the county of Daviess gave a majority against it, the proposition was carried by the State. 100 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. ELECTION RETURNS. The election returns, as now on file in the county clerk's office, are complete for only a few years past, and these we give in this chapter. The fragmentary returns we give only in the respective precinct histories. ELECTION, AUG. 4, 1851. Governor. Archibald Dixon ........... 831 L. W. Powell .............. 816 Senator. John G. McFarland ........ 986 Priest ................ 548 Representative. A. D. Crosby .............. 887 Haynes .............. 695 ELECTION, AUG. 2,1852. Sheriff. Landrum .................. 1101 507 Veech..................... 594 Railroad Tar. For....................... 406 Against .................... 1304 898 ELECTION, AUG. 6,1855. Campbell, Am. elected. S. 0. Peyton, anti-Am.......... Representative. F. M. Daly .elected. F. I. McLean.................. ELECTION, AUG. 4,1856. Circlit Clerk. J. P. Thompson, Am ..... .. 89) 22 Joseph Thomas, anti-Am. .875 Sheriff. J. G. Harrison,Am .956 40 J. G. McFarland, anti-Am ...916 Circuit Judge. James Stuart, Am..35 J. Kincheloe .............6... 69 34 Connnonwoealth's Attorney. B. H. Helm, Am ..... 832 ELECTION, AUG. S, 1857. Senator. Wm. B. Wall, Am... ..... ... A. Cosby, anti-Am......about 25 S. 0. Peyton, anti-Am. . 400 J. L. Johnson, Am. ELECTION, AUG. 1, 1859 Governor. Beriah Magoffin, dem ........... 100 J. F. Bell, Am. Representative. John G. McFarland, dem ....... 127 Thomas Landrum, opp. County Clerk. M. L. Ogden, opp .............. 21 Thos. G. Watkins, dem. ELECTION, AUG. 6, 1860. Sheriff. H. W. Scott. dem . John Locke. County Attorney. J. H. M cllnry J. R. Claybrook. Appc7llate Clerk. Clinton McClarty, S. R R. R. Bowling, ind. dem. Leslie Combs, o P . ELECTION, AUG. 5, 1861. Representative. C. T. Noel, Soutbern rights... Geo. H. Yeaman, union ...... .. 75 Senator. Wni. Anthony, union .......... elected. W. Vance, S. R ............... 5 ELECTION, AUG. 4, 1862. Circuit Clerk. Joseph Thomas, union... 861 elected. II. 0. Hart, S. R............... Sherift Jo Harrison ................ 917 Appellate Judge. R. K. Williams ....... ..... 719 Circa it fudge. W. B. Wall .868 753 James Stuart ... ........... 115 'Coznonwetocalth's Attorney. J.Chapeze........ 480 219 J. Harrison........ 261 101 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. l --- t County Judge. A. G. Botts .................6 (63 F. M. Beers ................. 221 County Clerk. J. O'Brien ................. 845 County Attorney. W. S. McFarland ....... 808. Assessor. V. L. Moseley ............. 608 S'urveyor. 442 H W. Scott ............... 327 Coroner. J. W. Rumsey . ..497, elected. - Hines .................. - Richardson.... ........ ELECTION, OCT. 27, 1862. Congressman. Geo. H. Yeamnan, union..... 565 Edward R. Weir... 63 ELECTION, NOV. 8, 1864. President. Geo. B. McClelIan, dem .... 1124 A. Lincoln, rep ............ 27 Surveyor. H. W. Scott ............... 1904 Assessor. J. W. Onan, dem .......... 1863 J. J. Talbott ............... 162 Sam. Jewell, dem ......... 41 J. T. Moseley, dem ........ 94 Coroner. H. O'Bryan, Union ......... 626 - Brown........... ...536 Road Tax. For................ .. 926 Against ................... 536 ELECTION, AUG. 6,1866. Appellate Clerk. Alvin Duvall .............. 1951 --Hobson ...... 495 County Judge. E. C. Berry...... 489 G. W. Trip]ett...... 1444 John S. McFarland .. .10 County Clerk. Dunan .198 J. M. Hughes .447 -- O'Brien .642 Jones ................. 1138 Sheri/. E. A. Hathaway...... 732 W. H. Perkins... ... 1576 502 1097 County Attorney. - Taylor ................ 1442 T. E. Crutcher ............. 546 ELECTION OF APRIL 15, 1867. Ravilroad Subscription. Por .................. 1231 Against .................. 1039 ELECTION, AUG. 5,1867. Governor. John L. Helm, S. R. 1618 W. B. Kinkead, union dem.. 150 S. M. Barnes, rep .......... 58 Circuit Judge. Geo. W. Williams, dem.... 711 J. L. Johnson, union dlem... 126 Co7rnon Pleas Judge. C. G. Wintersmith, union.. .1055 L. P. Little ............... 493 Representative. J. Veech, union dem ....... 747 J. W. Moseley, lem ........ 834 H. C. McPherson .......... 33 192 1468 585 662 87 ELECTION, AUG. 3, 1868. Governor. J. W. Stevenson, dem ...... 2475 2415 - Baker, union .......... 60 Circuit Judge. Geo. W. Williams, dem ....2413 Commontoealtk's Attorney. Baker Boyd, S. R ...... 1070 R. Y. Bush, dem .... ...... 140 Geo. W. Swoope, dem. ... 1226 Circuit Clerk. J. P. Thompson, S. R ...... 1769 927 M1. L. Ogden, dem ......... 842 Sheriff. H. W. Scott .............. 2493 Surveyor. I. W. Sutherland, U. dem. .1836 1467 W. Carico, S. R ........... 369 -Pearl ............ .... 40 ELECTION, NOV. 3,1868. President. H. Seymour, dem ........ . 2415 2197 U. S. Grant, rep... ....... 218 Congressman. W. N. Sweeney, dem.......2360 2286 Samuel Langley, union..... 174 ELECTION, AUG. 2,1869. State Treasurer. James W. Tate, dem ....... 1295 1073 E. R. Wing, rep .... . ...... 222 102 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Senator. Ed. Hawes, S. R ........... 1538 Representative. C. Griffith, union dem. 1394 J. W. Gabbert . 306 County Attorney. V. T. Crawford, S. R. 1347 School Tet. For. 524 Against .1246 ELECTION, AUG. 2,1870. Appellate Judge. Wm. Lindsay. 1948 G. W. Williams .136 Ciseuit Judge. M. F. Cofer .2021 County Judge. G. W. Triplett .2048 A. G. Botts .804 County Clerk. Thomas C. Jones .2029 Moore .802 CouAty Attorney. W. T. Ellis ............... 2056 Haynes ............... 698 SherzI. H. W. Scott ............... 2076 - Maddux ......... .... 783 Surveyor. I. W. Sutherland .......... 2006 -- Mayo................. 786 Assessor. Wm. Onn.2087 - Wooten ............... 785 Coroner. A. J. McAtee ........ ..... 1978 Littell ................ 796 ELECTION, NOV. 8, 1870. Congressman. H. D. McHenry, un. dem... .1197 W. J. Rothrock............ 594 ELECTION, AUG. 7,1871. Governor. P. H. Leslie, S. R ............. 2478 J. M. Harlan, rep..896 Representative. Clint. Griffith, un. dem ..... 1789 S3. H. Jesse, S. R ........... 1144 IF. H. Roberts, rep .......... 821 1088 722 603 1582 645 ELECTION, NOV. 5,1872. President. Horace Greeley, lib. rep....2035 947 U. S. Grant, rep ... ........ 1086 ELECTION, AUG. 12, 1874. Appellate Clerk. T. C. Jones .2807 J. B. Cochran. 398 Circuit Judge. L. P. Little ................ 271 James Mo itgomery . 582 James Stuart . 1329 Commonwealth's Attorney. Jo Haycraft .1444 Eli 11. Brown.1699 255 Circuit Clerk. F. F. Conway .3371 County Judge. Geo. W. Triplett.2085 238 Geo. W. Jolly .1847 County Attorney. Wm. T. Ellis. 3423 Sheriff. Henry W. Scott .3349 Jailer. J. W. Slaughter .2786 J. M. Lanham . 516 Coroner. Geo. W. Mathis. 2318 Surveyor. Robert Frey........ 3267 Assessor. Wm. T. Aull.. 3321 ELECTION, AUG. 2, 1875. Governor. James B. JMcCreary, S. R.. 2476 1453 John M. Harlan, rep... ... 102'3 Representatives. W. J. Taylor, S. RU..2267 l elected J. G. Ford, S. R1..1907 A. J. Philpot, rep. 1050 Surveyor. C. W. Gordon .2113 ELECTION, AUG. 7, 1876. Circuit Judge. G. W. Ray, un.2048 318 J. A. Murray, dem . 1730 Sheriff. J. H. Gates, dem. 2380 738 R. R. Coomes, dem. 1642 103 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Road Lawo. For ......... .......... 300 Against .................... 3088 2788 ELECTION, NOV. 2,1876. President. S. J. Tilden, dem..........3369 2089 R. B. Hayes, rep .......... 1130 G. C. Smith, pro .......... 1280 Congressman. James A. Mc Kenzie, S. R.. 2809 2378 J. Z. Moore, un ............9 31 ELECTION, AUG. 6, 1877. State Treasurer. James W. Tate, S. R ....... 1575 1338 Isaac H. Trabue ............ 237 Senator. C. Griffith, dem ........... 1797 1137 V. P. Stateler ....... .....640 Representatives. C. K. Tharp, dem ...... 1971 dlet A. Craycroft, dem ...... 1737 eecte. J. A. Shackleford ...... 202 ELECTION, NOV. 5, 1878. Congressman. J. A. McKenzie, dem ...... 1136 872 John W. Feighan, rep ...... 264 Francis M. English, gbk.....154 ELECTION, AU.G. 5, 1879. Appellate Judge. Thos. H. Hines.. ... . 3168 County Judge. H. W. Scott ................ 2889 Geo. W. Jolly. . ..... 1693 County Attorney. John L. McFarland ........ 3732 County Clerk. M. S. Mattingly . ........ 3554 Sheriff. Ed. C. Davi s ...... ....... 3584 E. S. WorthingtOD ......... 227 Assessor . Gideon Allgood ............. 3397 C. W. Tlhoias ............. 295 So r Vqii r. C. W. Gordon .............. 3388 Ciroe er. J. W. Funk ............ ... 3119 ELECTION, AUG. 4,1879. G,vern or. Luke P. Blackburn, dem. . .1926 Walter Evans, rep .......... 418 C. W. Cook, gbk .... ....... 283 33577 3102 150 Representatives. R. W. McFarland, dem.2077 elected. James Rudy, S. R ...... 2030 ft E. S. Worthington,gbk ....... 241 Eugene O'Flynn, gbk ....... 296 Constitutional Convention. For .................... 667 587 Against ..................... 80 Local Option or License. For .................... 340 Against .................... 588 248 ELECTION, AUG. 3, 1880. Circuit Judge. Lucius P. Little, dem ....... 2669 1065 James Stuart, ind ....... .. 1604 Commonwealth's Attorney. Joseph Noe, dem ........... 2159 ltl Joseph Haycr aft, dem... .... 2048 Circuit Clerk. F. F. Conway .......... 3358 Sheriff. Ed. C. Davis ......... . 3368 Surveyor. E. Edwards. ......... 2911 ELECTION, AIUG. 1, 1881. tate Treasurer. j. W.Tate...1457 Senator. J. A. Munday ............. 1571 Representatives. Geo. V. Triplett, dem ...... 1529 J. H. Rudy, dem . .. 1554 Both elected. Sherif. A. B. Miller, dem... . 1122 Coroner. P. W. Clark ................ 460 G. W. Mathis .436 J. B. Whelan .. ........... 310 ELECTION, AUG. 7,1882. Judge (f Superior Court. J. H. Bowden, dem ......... 2146 Appellate Clerk. Thos. J Henry, S. R.,...... 2012 R. T. Jacob, S. R ............ 402 County Judge. H. W. Scott, dem .......... 2263 Countty Attorney. Martin Yewell, dem ........ 2327 Courtgy Clerk. M. S. Mattingly, dem .......2366 24 1610 104 HISTORI OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Sheriff. A. B. Miller, dem .......... 1927 J. J. Christian, rep. .575 Surmeyor. E. Edwards, dem ........... 2253 Coroner. Geo. M. Hayden ....... ... 2210 1352 Assessor. G. A. Allgood ............. 2385 School Tax. For................. 607 Against ............... . 1907 OFFICIALS. The following embraces the persons who have filled the various official positions in connection with the government and organiza- tion of the county: JUDGES OF THE CIRCUIT COURT. Henry P. Broadnax ........... 1815-'2 Alney McLean ............. 1822-'4 John Calhoon ............. 1842-'5 John P. Devereux ............ 1851 Jesse W. Kincheloe .......... 1851-'56 James Stuart ............. 1856-'67 James L. Johnson .... . ...... 1867 I George W. Williams ......... 1867-'70 Martin H. Cofer .............. 1870-'74 James Stuart ............... 1874-'80 Lucius P. Little . ......... .1880 Beside these, special judges were appointed at various times, among whom were John H. AMedlenry and George H. Yeaman. CLERKS OF THE CIRCUIT COURT. George Handley .............. 1815-'27 Horace Allen .....l....... 82-1 '32 John S. McFarland .... 1832-'45 William B. Wall.... 1845--56 John P. Thompson.... 1856-'62 Ward Payne.... 1862 Joseph Thomas .............. 1862-'68 MA L. Ogden...... 1868 John P. Thompson.... 19B8-'72 Jo Thomas.... 1872 John G. McFarland ..... 18,2-' 74 Frank F. Conway.... 1874 The first Clerk, George Handley, is still, or was recently, living at Hodginsville, Ky. He retained the position till April, 1827, when he resigned the duties of the office. Horace Allen, who had previously acted ds Depuity, became Clerk. Allen lied while in office, and was sueceeded by John S. McFarland, who resigned the position October, 1845. Jolh P. Thomnpson also died while serv- iuig as Clerk. COMMONWEALTH'S AtORNEYS. Henry Davidge............. John H H y ........... 1821 Alfred Allen.... 1841-'51 B. Hardin Helm.... 1856 Cicero Maxwell.... 1858 John Chapeze ....... ........ 186' Baker Boyd ................. 1868 Jo Haycraft....... 1874 Joseph Noe ..... . ........... 1880 105 1HISTORY OF DAVESS COUNTY. SHERIFFS OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Charles Y. Duncan... ......1815-'21 William Glenn.. 1821--23 John Piles.. 1823-'2.5 Remus Griffith.. 1825-'27 J. Leman.. 1827-'29 Warner Crow .. 1829-'31 John Daveiss ............ .... 1831-'33 R. C. Jett.1833-'35 S. Hawes.. 1835-'37 E. McCreery.. 1837-'38 R. C. Jett.. 1838-'39 William Newton.. 1839-'41 William B. Baird.. 1841 Joseph M. Potts.. 1841-'43 John G. Howard.. 1843-'45 Henry Dugan . ........... 1845'-47 Abner Lee . ............ 1847-'49 C. D. Jackson ............. 1849-'51 Thomas Landrum . . 1851-'55 Joseph G. Harrison ...... ... 1855-'59 John Locke . . 1859-'63 Joseph G. Harrison ........... 1863-'66 W. H. Perkins . ........... 1866;-'68 H. W. Scott . ............ 1868'-72 W. H. Perkins . ............ 1872-'74 H. W. Scott. .............1874-'76 J. H. Gates .............. 1876-'78 Ed. C. Davis . ............ 1878-'82 A. B. Miller .............. 1882 COUNTY SURVEYORS. James W. Johnson ........... 1815-'33 Rich. F. Bibb ............. 1833-'34 Geo. W. Triplett .1834-'50 S. D. Shepherd .......... ., l850-'54 R. R. Coomes.......... 1854-'58 H. W. Scott. .......... 1858-68 I. W. Sutherland ............. 1868-'74 Robert Frey .1874 E. Turner ......... .1874-'75 C. W. Gordon ...... .... 1875-'79 E. Edwards......... 1880 COUNTY JIJDGES. Thos. W. Watkins ............ 1850-'54 Geo. W. Triplett, elected. . 1866'-70-'74 Geo. H. Yeaman .1854-'58 1H. W. Scott .1879 A. G. Botts.... .. 1858-'66 COUNTY ATrORNEYS. John H. Todd............... Wm. N. Sweeney............ Henry Smith................. - Dallam ................. W. S. McFarland . Amos R. Taylor ........ ... . C. Riley. V. T. Craword.. W .T. Ellis ........... ...... 1876-'80 Martin Yewell ............... 1882 Joseph Noe ............. ..... 1882 COUNTY CLERKS. Wm. R.Griffith ........ ..... 1815-'18 George Handley ....... I . ..... 1819-28 Horace Allen........ ... 1829-30 J. S. McFarland ............-.1831 Wm. B. Wall .1851-'56 Graham Hughes .1856-'58 James B. Watkins ............ 185840 Jesse Moore .............. 1862 M. L. Ogden .............. 1860 'John O'Brien .............. 1862 Thos. C. Jones..;1866-'74 M. S. Mattingly. 1872 SENATORS. John Handley (died in 1816).. .1814 Benj. Duncan . .......... 1817 James Hillyer . .......... 1818 James Johnston . . 1819.'28 N. D. Anderson ........... Benj. Duncan . ... 1823-'27 Robert Stephens ...823... Wm. R. Griffith . .......... 1831-'35 Anselm Watkins . ........ 1835239 Wm. R Griffith. . 1839-'43 Francis Peyton . ......... 1843.'47 Geo. W. Triplett .............. 1849 Camden Riley ............... 1850 John G. McFarland ........... 1851,'53 John S. McFarland ............ 1853-'57 A. D. Cosby ............... 1857261 Wm. Anthony ............... 1861-'65 Edwin Hawes......... 1869273 Geo. W. Swoope ...... ......... 1873-'77 C. Grifflth ...... . ........... 1877-'81 J. A. Munday.... 1881-'85 106 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. REPRESENTATIVES. Benj. Duncan.1S3 Wm. Glenn.............. 1817 Benj. Duncan ................. 1818-'19 Warner Crow ..............1 1820 John Roberts .1822 Phil. Triplett ........ ....... 1824 Nestor Clay .............. 182-5 John S. McFarland .. ......6. 182( John Roberts ....... ....... 1827 James W. Johnson ............1 ]82 8 Win. R. Griffith .............. 1829 Simpson Stout .............. 1830 John Roberts .............. 1831 Richard Lockhart ........ .. 1834 John B. Hinton......... .1833 Wm. T. Sharpe.1834 Wim. R. Griffith ........... 1835 Robert Griffith ...........1. .. 836 Wm. Anthony ................ 1837 Wm. Newton........ .....1838 Warner Crow. . 1839 George W. Triplett.............1840-A-1 Warner Crow .... ........... 1842-'43 James L. Johnson ............. 1844 Camden Rilen.t 84a John P. Devereux ........ ...1846 Finley W. Wall.... 1817 John H. McFarland.... 1.....848 Ben. Johnson .......... .....1849 John S. McFarland ........ . 0.. t(-'51 A. D. Co-b .b...... 1851-153 Daniel M. Griffith .. .... 1853-'55 Andrew Jones ...............1855- 57 Francis Al. Dailey.1857-'55 John G. McFarland.... 18'59-'61 Gee. R. Yeaman.... .1861-'6; .John S. McFarland.. . 1862-8(5 Josiah Veech ............... 181i5-'67 Jol]n W. Moseley .... ........ 1867-269 Clinton Griffith .1869-'73 Ben Stout ....... ............ 1873-275 W. J. Taylor...187a- 77 J. G. Ford.......18T-'77 C K. Tharp. 18.7-'79 A. Craveroft ..1877-'7,J R. W. McFarland...... . 1879-'81 James H. Rudy. 18.9-280 Geo. V. Triplett. 18Y81283 James H. Rudy. 1881-'83 In 1788, when this portion of Kentucky was Nelson County, it was represented by John Steele and Matthew Walton, in the con- vention which ratified the present Constitution of the United States. Of the earliest justices of the peace, we mention the names of John Calhoon, an eminent lawyer and great man; John Daveiss, who was acting in 1818; and Warner Crow, who had the office at least from 1818 to 1823. THE COURTS. Circutit Coitrt.-The Fourteenth Judicial Circuit (or District) was erected by the Legislature of 1821, and comprised the counties of Muhlenburg, Hopkins, Union, Henderson, Daviess, Brecken- ridge and Ohio. Although this county is not actually named in the law, it was doubtless contained in the above district. 1 itl. Laws, 400. By Morehead Brown's Digest of 1834, the Fourteenth Dis- trict was made to cotuprise Muhlenburg, Butler, Ohio, Daviess. Breckenridge and Hancock counties. By the Revised Statutes of 1852 the Third District wvas created with the following counties: Breckenl idge, Han cock, Daviess, Muhlenbnrg, Ohio, Grayson, Meade, LaRue and Hardin. 107 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. By act of 1856 the Third District comprised Breckenridge, Han- cock, Daviess, McLean, Ohio, Grayson, Meade, LaRue and Hardin By act of 1868 the Fifth Judicial District was created thus: Breckenridge, Hancock, Daviess, Ohio, Grayson, Hardin, Meade. By act of 1880, the Fourth Circuit was made to consist of Han- cock, Daviess, Ohio and McLean counties. All the above may be very neatly tabulated as follows: COUNTIES____________ 1821. 1834. 1852 1856. 1868. 1880. COUNTIES. 14TH. 14TH. 3D. 5TH. 4TH. Muhlenburg............ 1............. Hopkins.............................1 Union ... ...................... 1 Henderson...... . 1 Breckenridge......... ..... 1 1 1 1 1 O hio.... .................. 1 1 1 1 1 Butler .. Hancock......- ............ 1 1 1 1 Meade...... ..................1 1 1 Grayson... .. ......1 1 1 LaRue. ................. ............1 Hardin. ............. ..... ..........1 McLean ...1 1 Daviess.............................1 1 1 1 1 At present the Circuit Court for Daviess County convenes the first Monday in March and September and the third Monday in January and July. Lucius P. Little is the present Judge. For a complete list of the circuit judges,- see a preceding page in this chapter. The January and July terms are Criminal Courts. From 1875 to 1880 there were two judgres,-a criminal and a circuit. John Allen Murray was the Criminal Judge and James Stuart the Circuit " or " Civil." The records of this court are complete from the organization of the county inl 1815 to the present time. As a matter of interest and curiosity in this historical work we will copy the first proceed- ings of this body: "At a Circuit Court began and held for the county and circuit of Daviess at the house of Thomlas Moseley, Sr., at the Yellow Banks in said county on Monday, the 9th day of October, 1815, and in the twenty-fourth year of the Commonwealth, were present the l1on. Henry P. Broaduax; George Calhoon and Anthony Thompson, Esquires. "The court proceeded to the appointment of a clerk, a majority concurring therein, and to appoint George Handley, Clerk of the Court, he having produced to the court a certificate from the Rlon. John Boyle, William Cogan and William Owsley, Judges of the 108 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Court of Appeals, and attested by Achilles Sweet, Esq., their clerk, certifying that he, the said George Handley, has been exam- ined bv their clerk in their nresence and under their direction, and that they deem him well qualified to discharge the duties of clerk to any County Court, Circuit Court, or court of equal dignity within this Commonwealth. " And thereupon the said George Handley took the oath required by the Federal Constitution, the oath required by the Constitution of this State, the oath of office, and the dueling oathl,-which oaths were administered to himt by this court, and entered into bond in the penalty of 10,000 with Joseph Allen, Benj. Duncan, An- thony Thompson, Charles Y. Duncan and William R. Griffith, his securities, and which bond is in words and figures following, to wit: "Know all men by these presents, That we, George Handley, Joseph Allen, Benjamin Duncan, Anthony Thompson, Charles Y. Duncan and William R. Griffith-, are held and firmly bound unto the Commonwealth of Kentucky in the penal sum of 10,000, cur- rent monev. and for the payment whereof we bind ourselves, our heirs, etc., jointly and severally, firmly by these presents, sealed with our seals, and dated this 9th day of October, 1815. "The condition of the above obligation is, that if the above bound George Handley, who has this day been appointed clerk of the Cir- cuit Court of Daviess County, shall truly and faithfully discharge the duties of said office according to law, then the above obligation to be void, else to remain in full force and value. GEORGE HANDLEY, [SENL.] Jo. ALLEN, [SEAL. ] Executed in the presence of B3ENJ. DUNCAN, [SEAL.] HENRY P. BROADNAX, Judge." CHARLES Y. DuNCAN, [SEAL..] ANTHONY THOMPSON, [SEA.L.] WM. R. GRIFFITH. [SEAL.] FEDERAL JUDICIAL DISTRICT. As early as 1868 a movement was set on foot for securing the establishrnent at Owensboro of the seat of a new Federal Judicial District. In the following winter a bill was introduced in Con- gress for the creation of an additional district for Kentucky, and Owensboro, Paducah and Bowling Green became competing points for the headquarters. In February, 1880, the friends of Owensboro prepared an elabo- 109 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. rate memorial to Conoress, setting forth the arguments in favor of establishing a Federal Court here. A bill was accordingly intro- duced appropriating 50,000 for the erection of public buildings and the purchase of a suitable site in Owensboro, and vigorously advocated by Hon. J. A. McKenzie, from this district. But Con- gress adjourned, June 16, without taking action on the bill. In December, 1880, a petition was signed by fifty prominent citizens, requesting the Owensboro City Council to appropriate 200 or more to defray the expenses of two or more influential citizens to Washington to aid in securing the passage of that bill, or a similar one. J. A. Manday and J. Z. Moore were selected to attend to this errand; but the bill is still pending. Tile bill pro- vides for a building which shall serve both as a Federal Court building and a custom-house. Appellate Court.-The Fourth Appellate District of Kentucky embraces the counties of Ballard, Butler, Caldwell, Calloway, Crit- tenden, Christian, Daviess, Edmonson, Fulton, Grayson, Graves, Hancock, Henderson, Hickman, Hopkins, Livingston, Lyon, Lo- gan, Marshall, McCracken, McLean, Muhlenburg, Ohio, Simpson Trigg, Todd, Union, Warren and Webster. COUNTY COURTS. The county judge is the presiding judge of the County Court, which is held the third Monday of each month. In October of each year the justices sit with him, for the purpose of making the county levy and appropriations from the county funds. Sitting alone, the county judge has jurisdiction of matters of probate, ap- pointment of guardians, granting licenses, supervision of all the public roads in the county, etc. On the first Monday of February, May, August and November, the county judge holds a quarterly court, in which he exercises civil jurisdiction in cases where the claims do not exceed 200. The above system was inaugurated with the present Constitution, in 1850. Before that time the justices held the County Courts which were presided over by the senior justice. Justices and con- stables were appointed by the Governor. County Oourt.-This meets the third Monday of each month, IH. W. Scott, Judge; M. S. lattingly, Clerk; Martin Yewell, County Attorney; A. B. Miller, Sheriff; Gideon Ailgood, Assessor. Court of Claims.-Meets the third Monday in October. H. W. Scott, Judge. This court is held to levy taxes, audit claims, etc. 110 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Quarterly Court.-This is held the first Monday in February, May, August and November. H. W. Scott is the present Judge. ]tagistrates' Courts.-These are held in the respective precincts. See the precinct histories. Justices of the peace, or magistrates, and constables, are elected the first Saturday in May-the justices for four years and the constables for two years, their terms com- mencing on the first of June following. BAR ASSOCIATION. An association of the lawyers was organized in 1879. W. T. Owen is President, and J. A. Deane, W. L. Burton, Treasurer. Owensboro. in Secretary, and G.I - i ill CHAPTER V. SKETCHES OF PUBLIC MEN. As more extended notices are required of many of the officials of Daviess County, including State and Government officers and representatives who have resided within the litmits of this county, we devote a chapter to them; and as a matter of convenience we will include all the members of the present bar, and many of the past, in our sketches, and follow an alphabetical arrangement. E. G. Adatms. attorney at law and Justice of the Peace, is a soil of -Elisha and Artemeesia (West) Ada-ins, and was born in Upper- town, Oct. 7, 1849. He received a common-school education, and by close application was qualified to teach. In 1870 he went to Louisiana, but theclimate did not agree with him and he returned after an absence of a year and settled on a farm in Lowertown. He taught school about a year, and in 1873 managed his farm, hirings the labor. In 18 78 lie was elected Justice of the Peace for a term of fomr years, and in 1882 was re-elected. He was married April 15, 1869, to Mary Catherine, daughter of Richard C. and Sarah J. (Barrett) Fuquna. His wife died Aug. 16, 1879. They had three children-Mary Lou and Lou Ella, born Aug. 28, 1870, died in April, 1874; Helen Y., born July 28, 1878, is now living with Mr. Fuqua. After the death of his wife Mr. Adams moved into town and gives his- attention to the duties of his office and the practice of his profession. He was admitted to the bar Jan. 20, 1883. Ile belongs to the I. 0. 0. F., K. of P., and I. 0. G. T. He was also Master of Progressive Grange, and a member of the County and State Grange. He has delivered lectures on temper- ance; at the last one he had his horse stolen. Mr. Adams is a member of Walnut Street Baptist Church, and was elected Deacon when twenty-six years of ace. Gdeon A. Allgood was born in Yadkin County, N. C., Jan. 27, 1848. His father, James Allgood, was born in North Carolina, in 1811, and came to Daviess County in 1855, where he died March 1G, 1860. His mother, Amelia (Hiidspeath) Allgood, was born in North Carolina in 1812, and died in 1877, leaving four children-Nathan B., John L., Fiza A. and Gideon. Mr. Allgood (112) This page in the original text is blank. ir; Rr nt ' ;,wMi.1r .. " ' t. - [ t 1 11 I HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. was reared on a farm, and went to school at intervals until twenty- four years of age. He is a single man. In 1872 he was elected Constable to fill out the term of Robert Ellis, resigned. He served as Deputy Sheriff a year and a half, and as Deputy Assessor two years. In 1878 he was elected Assessor, and re-elected in 1882. He is a member of the Baptist church, and of Yelvington Lodge No. 693, A. F. A. M. Wm. Anthony, lawyer, was a member of the Legislature from this county during the war. He was learned, refined, able and witty. Ile stood firm on the side of the Union all through the war. As a lawyer lie was of course shrewd and ready. He could with wonderful ease, yet perfect politeness, entrap any crooked wit- ness whom he might be called upon to examine. He died some years ago. J. D. Atchison, attorney at law and ex-County Superintendent of Schools was born in this county Dec. 31, 1852. His father, Austin Atchison, was born in Virginia in 1807, and was of Scotch parentage. Ile was a farmer ill good circumstances, until 1865, at which time he lost his slaves and other property. He died in 1875. Mr. Atchison's mother, Lucy (Moseley) Atchison, was a native of Kentucky and died in 1865. His parents were married in 1850. OWing( to defective vision he did not learn to read until ten years of age, at which time he attended a county school one mouth, having procured a lens which enabled him to see sufficiently well to study. He was very small and sickly until six- teen years of age; he then again attended a county school. All of his leisure time had been spent in hard study, but a want of proper books was a great obstacle to his progress. A friend, E. H. Bryan, gave him great assistance in the sciences. In 1868 Prof. W. Alex- ander established Oakland Seminary, near the farm of Mr. Atchi- son's father, and at once took great interest in J. D., who was his pupil four years. He attended the school only during a part of the winter session, but took private lessons during the entire year. At the age of twenty Mr. Atchison borrowed money of his father, with which to buy suitable clothing, and started out to take care of himself. He went to Henderson County, where he was en- gaged nearly a year in teaching school, for which lie was paid Sixty dollars a month. With a part of this money he repaid his father, and the remainder he spent in the pursuit of his studies at school, where he organized a club, and " bached " at an expense not ex- ceeding 1.25 per week. 8 113 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. In 1874 Mr. Atchison accepted a professorship in West Ken- tucky College, at South Carrolton, Ky., which position be held two years. He was thus again associated with his former precep- tor, Prof. Alexander, who held the first position in the school. When quite young Mr. Atchison had determined to study law, and in 1876 he resigned his position in the school and commenced the course of study in his chosen profession. Partly from poverty, and partly from a fixed principle that every one ought to acquire knowledge by his own efforts, he determined not to enter a law school. He came to Owensboro, and in June, 1876, entered the law office of lion. W. N. Sweeney, where he remained four years. He was admitted to the bar in March, 1877, and in May, 1879, he was married to Miss Blanche Hermon, of Muhlenburg County, Ky., one of his former pupils. In 1880, when Judge James Stuart's term as Circuit Judge expired, he and Mr. Atchison formed a co- partnership, which still continues under the firm name of Stuart Atchison. For a number of vears Mr. Atchison was School Commissioner of Daviess County. P. C. Barrett is an attorney at law, resident at Whitesville. ifon. George X. Bibb. Although but a few years a resident of Daviess County, yet the prominence of Judge Bibb entitles him to a special notice in this chapter. He was born in Prince Edward County, Va., Oct. 30, 1776, and was the son of Richard Bibb, an Episcopal clergyman of great learning. His earliest recollections were of the struggle for American Independence, which began at his birth. Hle was well educated, a graduate of Hampton Sydney and also of William and Mary Colleges, and in his ] Ntter days was the oldest surviving graduate of each. Studying his profession with that distinguished lawyer, Judge Venable, he practiced in Virginia a short time, and removed to Lexington, Ky., in 1798, and was soon numbered among the ablest and soundest in a State already prominent for great lawyers. Jan. 31, 1808, he was ap- pointed one of the Judges of the Court of Appeals by Governor Greenup; and by Judge Scott, its Chief Justice, May 30, 1809, but resigned in March, 1810; and again, by Governor Desha, was appointed Chief Justice the second time Jan. 5, 1827, but resigned Dec. 23, 1828. Judge Bibb was twice elected to the U. S. Senate,-first in 1811, but resigned in 1814, and second in 1829, serving the full term of six years. During the war of 1812, he, in the Senate, and William Lowndes and John C. Calhoun, of South Carolina, and Henry 114 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Clay, in the U. S. House of Representatives, formed what was called the "War Mess" of the Madison administration-from having supported the war and the President with such great talent, vigor and zeal. He settled in Frankfort in 1816. From 1835 to 1844 Judge Bibb held the important position of Chancellor of the Louisville Chanicery Court, but resigned to become Secretary of the Treasury in the cabinet of his old colleague in the U. S. Senate, President Tyler, holding it to the close of his Presidential term. Thenceforward, until his death, April 14, 1859, he practiced law in the courts of the District of Commons, mnost of the time in the position of chief clerk in the department of the U. S. Attorney General, but really doing the duties now required of the Assistant Attorney General, an office established for the very labors per- formed bv him. Judge Bibb was a profound scholar, and a great mathematician, as well as a most eminent jurist. He had an iron frame and an ardent temperament; was capable of great endurance and labor, and liable to great bursts of indignation when roused. He married a daughter of General Charles Scott, who bore him twelve children. In 1832 he married again in Washington City, his second wife bearing hirn five children. His brother, John B. Bibb, was a member of the Kentucky Legislature, and in the State Senate 1830-'34. Judge Bibb died April 14, 1859, aged eighty-three years. Baker 'Boyd, born Aug. 9, 1S36, in Shelby County, Ky., is a son of William G. and Jane (Ligget) Boyd. His father was a native of Virginia, born Oct. 14, 17S3, and moved to Shelby County, Ky., when nineteen years of age. He was Sheriff of Shelby County twenty years under the old Consti- tution. He represented his district in the State Lower House and Senate ten years. He was married three timnes. His first wife was Agnes Shannon, bo-rn Sept. 1, 17S7. To them were born three children-Samuel L., born Sept. 4, 1806; Mehitable. Feb. 2, 1808; Martha Ann, Oct. 29, 1S09. His second wife was Mary Newland, born April 18, 17S5. They had two children- William Wallace, born April 23,1815, and John Newland, Jan. 23, 1817. His third wife was Mrs. Jane (Ligget) Newland. Her first husband was William Newland, and to them were born two children-James L. and Ann Maria. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Boyd-George Washington, born Dec. 8, 1820, mar- ried Efnily Moore, of Ballard County, Ky., and had three sons- 115 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. John, Ligget and Henry; Celeste, born July 30, 1822, married Green Stewart, and had the following children: Wallace, Clarence, Diggres, Bovdcl, John, Charles, William, Jennie, Sallie, Celeste; Columbus, born Dec. 12, 1824, married William II. Digges, Sept. 4, 1846, and had one son, William II.; Christopher C., born Sept. 6, 1826; Robert L., born Sept. 18, 1828, married Margaret Mc- CLartv, and had four children--J. Allen. Charles L., Henry D. and Mary L.; Jane, born Sept. 17, 1828, married James L. McClure, and had five children-Ligget, Logan, William, Jennie and James; Henry C.. born Aug. 14, 1833, died Sept. 11, 1864; Baker, subject of this sketch. William G. Boyd moved to Hancock County and lived about thirty years. In 1S60 he moved to Breckenridge County, where he died in 1S63. When about twenty years old, Baker Boyd entered the county and circuit clerk's office of Brecken- ridge County, under Joe Allen, Clerk of the county, and remained there two years. He began studyingrt law with Ben Munroe, United States Judge of the State of Kentucky, who was at the same time teaching a law school in Frankfort. After studying a year he was licensed to practice by two judges of the Court of Appeals, and established himself at Hawesville, Kv. Eight months later, in 1860, lhe removed to Blandville, where he remained till the break- ingr out of the war. In 1861 he went to Camp Cheatam, near Nashville, and joined Company A, First Tennessee Regiment, Rock City Guards. After the battle of Perryville lie was promoted to Third Lieutenant and then First Lieutenant of his company. J)ur- ing the war he was transferred to Company B, Seventh Kentucky PReogiment, being First Lieutenant of the company. At the battle of Nashville he was captured by the Federal forces, and the follow- ing day taken to Johnson island, across Sandusky Bay. Lalae Erie, and confined till the close of the wvar. He then returned to Hawes- ville and reinained about a year, when he moved to Hardinsburg and formed a partnership with Al fred H. Payton, and continued in practice there till August, 186S, whern he was elected Common- wealth Attorney for the Fourth District, comprising the counties of Hardin, Meade, Graysori, Breckenridge, Hancock, Ohio and Daviess, which position lie held six years. In 1868 he moved to Owensboro. He was married in October, 1868,to Celia V., dailgh- ter of Thomas M. and Penelope (McFarland) Barron. Her mother was a daughter of John H. McFarland. Her father was a native of Virginia, and died in Daviess County in 1867. 116 HISTORY OF l)XVIESS COUNTY. ienry P. Broadnax, the first Circuit Judge, 1815-'22, was an upright and impartial judge, and one of the most remarkable men of his day. During the last year or two of his judgeship, his gal- ary was paid in about 600 or 800 worth of corn. Those were "the primitive and honest days of the Republic." The judge used to wear short breeches, with knee ouckles, and plaited hair, tucked with a comb. TF Lindsea Burton, attorney and counselor at law, is a native of Daviess County, and is now practicing his profession in Owens- boro. He is a well-educated, Christian gentleman, a strong advo- cate of temperance, and no lover of card-playing or novel-reading. His maxims of life, of his profession, and of liberal education are of the highestorder. John Cal/oon was a prominent lawyer, a Circuit Jfidge, and a member of Congress. He was far superior to any other man of his time in this part of the country. Wilfred Carico is an attorney. Office in Court PRow. lHe also is a native of this county, and has passed all his life here. W. W. Chambers is a member of the Daviess County bar and a residemit of Oweusboro. Colonel .Martin Hardin Cofer was born in Hardin ,County, Ky., April 1, 1832. Ile was raised on a farm, and his education was such as the common schools of that day afforded. Early in life he determined to enter the profession of law. Hle was married in 1853, and shortly afterward removed to Illinois, where he resided three years. He studied his profession when not engaged in active business, and at the age of twenty-four was licensed by the Su- preme Court of that State to practice. Hle commenced his labors at Elizabethtown, Ky., and acquitted himself well in his first efforts. He made steady progress, and at the beginning of the civil war had a very large practice. In 1860 a military company was organized at Elizabethtown, and he was chosen its Captain. Dufring ,this year he was the Southern Rights candidate for the Lower House of the Legislature, having openly avowed his principles and determined to stand by them. His competitor, Hon. B. R. Young, who had been a member of Congress, was a man of ability and great popularity. Colonel Cofer and Dr. Young entered upon the can- vass in July, and after an exciting contest, the Union candidate was elected by a majority of only ninety votes. His next step was to enter the Confederate service. He was authorized, in connection with Major Thomas Hays, to raise a battalion of six companies, of 117 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. which he was to be Lieutenant-Colonel. Only five companies were obtained, and in November these were consolidated with other companies that formed the Sixth Regiment. He was elected Lieu- tenant-Colonel of this command, a nd took rank frcon the i o November. He participated in every engagement of his regiment up to th 30th of August, 1864, except that of Murfreesboro, and was severely wounded at Shiloh. He was promoted to Colonel Sept. 30, 1863. The day before the first battle of Jonesboro he was made Provost Marshal General of the Army of Tennessee. Colonel CGfer was a man of excellent judgment; was rarely known to draw a conclusion from a false premise, and in all his relations has maintained hmself as an honest, upright gentleman. Frank P. Conway, the present Circuit Clerk, is a native of Vir- ginia, bornf Nov. 22, 1837. When he was eleven years of age his father died, and he was sent to New Albany and educated. In 1859 he graduated in medicine at Louisville, and began practice as a phy- sician at Oakford, this county; but in the course of fourteen years his health failed, and he relinquished his profession, since which time he has been the popular and efficient Circuit Clerk of Daviess County. His first vote for President was for John C. Brecken- ridge. Hon. A. D. Cosby was a Representative to the Legislature 1851-'3, and Senator 1857-'61. V T. Crawford, in 1868 (and possibly other years), had an office in. Court Row, as a lawyer. Thomas A7exeander Craycroft was born in Washington County, Ky., Jan. 8, 1833; reared in Meade County, and completed a course of study in the English branches at St. Mary's and St. Joseph's colleges in this State. Ile afterward taught school awhile and read law, and graduated at the Louisville Law School in the spring of 1858. He located at Lebanon, Ky., where he was elected County Attorney/ and served two years. In February, 1860, lie opened a law office in Paraclifta, Ark., and practiced till the close of the war. While there he was elected Commonwealth's Attorney and recruiting officer for the Southern army. In 1860 he was Assistant Douglas Elector for Arkansas. In May, 1866, he came to Owensboro, where he has resided ever since, in the practice of law. Was four years City Judge, and was member of the Legislature one term-1877-'8. In 1881, in part- nership with Geo. V. Triplett, he established the Saturday Post, and continued as one of the editors and proprietors until January, 118 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. 1883. His editorial ability is of a high degree. His tastes, indeed, incline him more to literature and politics than to law. In politics he is a Jeffersonian Democrat, and is opposed alike to abolitionism and secessionism. Judge Craycroft was first married in January, 1857, to Miss Lucy Hopkins, of Owensboro. In May, 1860, he married Mrs. Mary Graves, of Marion County, Ky. His children are Benjamin and Lucy-both by his second wife. Warner Crow, Sheriff 1829-'31, was one of the oldest settlers of Daviess County, and is the father of Joshua G. Crow, a well-known' citizen of Murray Precinct. See sketch in the history of that pre- cinct. Samnuel R. Crurnbaugh, Collector for the Second Internal Reve- nue District of Kentucky, is now temporarily a resident of Owens- boro. having his principal office near the northeast corner of the public square. [This is Owensboro's present custom-house.] His district comprises thirty-two counties. Ile is a native of this State; graduated at the Military Academy at Annapolis, Md.; spent two years in scientific studies in London, Eng., and several years as Professor of Mathematics and Astronomy, the last two in the col- lege at Hopkinsville. He is a tall, soldierly looking gentleman, with a massive chest and square shoulders, and carries himself very erect. He wears a heavy mustache and goatee, and is probablY thirty-five or forty years of age. A few years ago he married a very wealthy woman at Elkton, and afterward moved to Hopkinsville, where he has a handsome residence. He is a rising politician, and at present the Republicans talk of placing him at the head of the State ticket at the next election. John Daveiss, Sheriff 1831-'3, was the brother of the next men- tioned. Colonel Joseplh lHamilton Daveiss or "Jo Daveiss," as he was popularly known , who gave his name to Daviess County, was one of the most remarkable men of his day. Ile was born in Bedford County, Va., March 4, 1774. His parents were natives of Virginia; his father of Irish, and his mother of Scotch, descent. When young Daveiss was five years old the family removed to Kentucky, then an almost unbroken wilderness, and settled in the immediate vicinity of the town of Danville, then in Lincoln County. An incident, which occurred in the journey to Kentucky, illus- trates the character of his mother. In crossing the Curoberland River, Mrs. Daveiss was thrown from her horse, and had her arm 119 1HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. broken. The party only halted long enough to have the limb bound up, with what rude skill the men possessed, and pursued their route, she riding a spirited horse and carrying her child, and never ceasing her exertions to promote the comfort of her com- panions when they stopped for rest and refreshment. Daveiss was sent to school as occasion allowed. He attended grammar schools taught by a Mr. Morley, and a Dr. Brooks, and made considerable advances in a knowledge of the Latin and Greek languages. At school he evinced unusual capacity, always being at the head of his class. He was particularly remarkable for his talent for decla- mation and public speaking. The sudden death of a brother and sister recalled him from school, and he returned home to assist his father in the labors of the farm. There is a tradition that young Daveiss was not particularly distinguished by his devotion to agricultural pursuits, frequently permitting the horses of his plow to graze at leisure, in a most unfarmer-like way, while he, stretched supinely on his back on some luxurious log, indulged in those delicious dreams and reveries so sweet to young and aspiring ambition. In the autumn of 1 792 Major Adair, under Government orders, raised some companies of mounted men, to guard the transpor- tation of provisions to the forts north of the Ohio River. Daveiss, then in his eighteenth year, volunteered in the service. On one occasion. when Major Adair was'encamped near Fort St. Clair, he was surprised early in the morning by a large body of Indians, who, rushing into the camp just after the sentinels had been withdrawn from their posts, killed and wounded fourteen or fifteen of the men, and captured and carried away about 200 head of horses. . These were taken within the Indian lines and tied. After the whites had sought shelter in the neighborhood of the fort, young, Daveiss, dis- covering his own horse at some distance hitched to a tree, resolved to have him at all hazards. He accordingly ran and cut him loose, and led him back to his companions amid a shower of balls. This exp)loit nearly cost him his life. A ball passed through his coat, waistcoat, and cut off a small piece of his shirt. His horse was the only one taken out of the 200. When his time of service ex- pired, hle returned hone, and spent some time reviewing his clas- sical studies. He ultimately concluded to study law, and entered he office o the celebrated George Nicholas, then the first lawyer in Kentucky. Daveiss entered a class of students, consisting of Isharn Talbot, Jesse Bledsoe, Williain Garrard, Felix Grundy, William. Blackbourne, John Pope. William Stuart, and Thomas 120 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUTNTY. Dye Owings, all !of whom became distinguished at the bar, and noted in the public history of the country. Nicholas was pro- foundly impressed with the striking indications of genius of a high order manifested by Daveiss while under his roof. His opinion of the strength of his character and the firmness of his principles was equally as exalted, and at his death, which occurred a few years after, he appointed him one of his executors. As a student he was laborious and indefatigable. lie accustomed himself to take repose on a hard bed; was fond of exercise in the open air, and was accustomed to retire to the woods with his books, and pursue his studies in some remote secluded spot, secure from the annoy- ance and interruption of society. In connection with his legal studies, he read history and miscellaneous literature. His mind, therefore, when be came to the bar, was richly stored with various and profound knowledge, imparting a-fertility and affluence to his resources, from which his powerful and well-trained intellect drew inexhaustible supplies. He began the practice of tle law in June, of the year 1795. The following August he was qualified as an attorney in the Court of Appeals. In his first case he had for an antagonist his old preceptor, over whom he enjoyed the singular gratification of obtaining a signal triumph. Daveiss settled at Danville, and soon commanded a splendid business ins all the courts in which he practiced. On the abolition of the District Courts and the substitution in their place of the Circuit Court, he removed to Frankfort. He had been appointed United States Attorney for the State of Kentucky. In the year 180)1 or 1802, he visited Wash- ington City, being the first Western lawyer who ever appeared in the Supreme Court of the United States. He here argued the cele- brated case of Wilson ver sous Mason. His speech is said to have ex- cited the highest admiration of the bench and bar, and placed him at once inl the foremost rank of his profession. During this trip he visited the principal cities of the North and East, and formed an acquaintance with many of the most distin- guished men of America. In 1803 he was united in marriage to Anne Marshall, the sister of John Marshall, the Cliief Justice of the United States. Miss Marshall seems to have shared none of flhe qualities of her celebrated brother. After residing at Frank- fort for a few years, he removed to Cornland, the farm on the Ohio a mile and a halt above Owensboro. His residence here was a hewed log house, which is not now remaining. He lived here till 1809, and then removed to Lexington, where lhe resumed the practice of law. , While acting as attorney for the United States, 121 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. he acted as prosecutor against Aaron Burr in his famous trial ot treason. He had noticed the movements of this person for some time before the prosecution was begun. Satisfied from his obser- vations that he had some unlawful design in view, he caused him to be apprehended and brought before the court. Burr's project was to revolutionize the Western country, establish an empire, with New Orleans as the capital, and himself the chief. July 24, 1806, General Dayton, one of Burr's firmest adherents, wrote to General Wilkinson in cipher, " Are you ready Are your numerous asso- ciates ready Wealth and glory! Louisiana and Mexico! ! " From a failure of evidence, as is well known, the prosecution was aban- doned, although the whole plot was finally discovered. In the fall of 1811, Colonel Daveiss joined the army of General Harrison in the campaign against the Indians on the Wabash. He received the comnmnand of major. On the 7th of November, 1811, in the celebrated battle of Tippecanoe, he fell in a charge against the Indians, made at his own solicitation. He survived from 5 o'clock in the morning till midnight, retaining to the last the full com- mand of his faculties. The personal appearance of Jo Daveiss was commanding and impressive. His bearing was grave and dignified. His manner was bland and courteous to those he loved, but haughty and repulsive in the extreme to those he disliked, He was nearly six feet high,with a form athletic and vigorous. He was eccentric in his habits, allusion to which may be found else- where. At the great trial of Aaron Burr, at Richmond, it is said he made his appearance in a suit of buckskin. As an orator he had few equals and no superiors. Competent judges unite in declar- ing that he was the most impressive speaker they ever heard. In conversation he was unequaled, and the life of every circle in which he was thrown. Dr. John D. Ogden, of Owensboro, has the original brief, in manuscript, which Jo Daveiss prepared and presented in a land suit from this county, in 1805 or '6, before the Supreme Court of the United States. This was the first argument ever presented before that body by an attorney from any section west of the Allegheny iMountains. It is related that when the case was about to be called, Mr. Daveiss was present, dressed in buckskin, with a squirrel cap, and was eating a piece of ginger-cake. It was whispered among the high-toned gentry of the court that the rough little Westerner would be so ignorant of the Virginia rules of procedure that he would soon be frustrated. When the case came up he 122 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. stepped forward and represented that he was the United States District Attorney for Kentucky. This was at first regarded merely as a joke; but during the whole course of the proceeding the only interruption made by the bench was simply to announce that the proposition which Mr. Daveiss was about to establish was already admitted by the court! John Allen Dean, formerly acting Commonwealth's Attorney, was born in Breckenridge County, Ky., Dec. 14, 1852; raised on a farm; graduated at Kentucky University at Lexington in June, 1874, and in the Law Department of the Louisville Univer- sity inl March, 1876, and opened an office over the Planters' Bank in Owensboro; had his office in several other buildings, and is now on St. Ann street, opposite the court-house. In 1878 he married a daughter of Dr. Josiah Hale. N. iB. Decker was admitted to the bar here, but did not practice law in this circuit. He has been teaching public school in Waco, Texas, and is now following the profession of law. le is a prom- ising young man. John P. Deveremvx, Circuit Judge in 1851, went to Kansas City in 1859, entering the railroad business and becoming very promi- nent in the development of the " New West." In 1866 he removed to St. Louis, M v., where he was commissioner of the land department of the Union Pacific Railroad Company until 1876, when he returned to Kansas City as the attorney of the company. In 1878 he moved to Denver. Col. Judge John P. Devereux came here from Virginia, married Miss Mason of this county, practiced as an attorney for a number of years, was Circuit Judge, and in - went West, etc. He was a noble -man, both in appearance and manners. Willictm 1T. Ellis, born in Daviess Country, Ky., July 24, 1845, was a son of Luther L. and Mary Al. (Kallain) Ellis, natives of Shelby and Daviess counties, Ky. His father died in March, 1855, and his mother in March, 1856, leaving two children-William T. and J. W. Ellis, now of Masonville. William T. was reared and educated in Daviess County. Before he was sixteen years old he enlisted in the Confederate army, in the First Kentucky Cavalry; was mustered in Oct. 5, 1861, and served during the war, surren- dering April 21, 1865. At the close of the war he was a non- commissioned officer, in command of scouts. After the war he returned home and attended school the rest of the year 1865 and 1866, working during vacation to pay his board and tuition. The 123 1ISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. latter part of 1865 and till the spring of 1867 he taught school near Whitesville in connection with his studies. During the years 1867-'69 he read law during his leisure time while engaged in teaching. In the spring of 1869 lie received his license to practice law, and entered Harvard Law School, Cambridge, Mass. Re- turned home in the spring of 1870, and in August of that year was elected County Attorney of Daviess County, and re-elected in 1874. In 1876 he was Democratic elector for this district on the Tilden and Hendricks ticket. Feb. 11, 1871, he formed a partner- ship with William T. Owen, under the name of Owen Ellis, which is now one of the prominent law firms of the county. Oct. 20, 1871, Mr. Ellis married Alice, daughter of C. R. Coffey, who died a little more than a year later. Nov. 2, 1876, lie married Mattie 1P., daughter of Dr. W. F. Miller, of Louisville, Ky. George F Ellis was born near Knottsville, Daviess Co., Ky., Nov. 11, 1856. When lie was four years of age his parents moved to Owensboro, where lie was reared and educated. He attended the Kentucky University at Lexington three years, graduating in June, 1876. He returned to Owensboro and studied law during the summer with Owen Ellis, teaching during the winter. - He was admitted to the bar at the June ternm of 1880. In May, 1878, he married Josie Newton, a native of Carolina County, Va., born July 1, 1861. They have one childl-Muriel, born Jan. 23, 1882. Mr. Ellis is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Joshua G. Ford, Eepreseritative to the Leg'islature 1875-'7, was editor of the Southern Shield. See chapter on the Press of Daviess Coun ntv. Robest Frey, attorney at law, office in the Savings Bank building. was County Surveyor in 1874. He is a young man of considerable energ y Glsnton Griflth was a Representative to the Legislature for two terms, 1869-'73. He is a wealthy farmer, living in the southern suburbs of Owensboro. Williaam R. Griffith, deceased, was born Feb. 28, 1794, in Mary- land, and was brought, by emigration of the family, to Ohio County in 1805. I-e was the first County Clerk of Daviess, which office he held for many years; and he was widely esteemed for his many excellent traits, and possessed abilities of no common character. He recorded the first deed ever made in the county, which transfer was made June 12, 1816, of 100 acres of land, by Adam Jourdan to Moses Gwyn, for the consideration of 350. This tract of land 124 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. is said to be still in cultivation, but has not enhanced much in value. He afterward studied law and was admitted to the bar. His practice was successful and his business, largely consisting in land claims, was straightforward and reliable. In some portions of the latter business he was in partnership with Phil Triplett. Mr. G. was a Whig in his party affiliations. I-le died in December, 1848; two of his children survives-Daniel M. and Clinton, both well-known citizens of Owensboro. William R. Grifth, grandson of the above, and son of Clinton Griffith, is an attorney at law, now practicing in Owensboro. Office, with Weir, Weir Walker. T'. B. Hardin, a native of Springfield, Washington Co., Ky., was an attorney at law in Owensboro from 1864 until 1872 or '3, in partnership with G. W. Ray, when he returned to Springfield, and is there nowv. He is probably over fifty years of age. JosephA Haycraft was born in Hardin County, Ky., where he received most of his education; studied law with Judge M. HI. Cofer, -and graduated in the Law Department of the Louisville University in 1861; was First Lieutenant in the Confederate army; practiced law with Judge Cofer at Brandenburg; was Common- wealth's Attorney 1875-'6; for the last four years he has been in Owensboro in partnership with R. W. Slack. S U. Haynes was a lawyer in Owensboro in 1868. Office, over the Deposit Bank. 0. H. Hayneq, attorney at law, is a native of this county, which has always been his home. le graduated at the Louisville Law School, and was admitted to the Bar in 1876. George F. Haynes, son of F. W. and Cassandra (Miller) Haynes, was born in Boston Precinct, Daviess Co., Ky., May 7, 1854. The parents of George F. were both natives of Ohio County, and were both descendants from Old Virginia, but settled in Kentucky at the beginning of the present century. F. W. Haynes caine to Daviess County in 1836, and settled in the forks of Panther Creek, and in 1854 moved to Boston Precinct, where he engaged in farming, and at the time of his death owned a farm of more than 400 acres. George F. Haynes grew to maturity on the farm, and at the age of seventeen attended school at Horse Cave, in Heart County, Ky. In the fall of 1857 he began teaching a term of school, lasting five months. He continued teaching five months each year for four years. Dec. 31, 1877, Mr. Haynes came to Owensboro and entered the County Clerk's 125 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. office, as deputy, serving in this capacity until 1880, when he re- ceived an appointment of Master Commissioner of Daviess County Circuit Court. For many generations the Hayneses have been strict adherents of the Baptist school of morals, and underthie influence our subject was reared, having joined this church many years ago. Ben. Hardin Helm was the son of Governor John L. Helm, and was born in Hardin County, Ky.; graduated at the West Point Military Academy, and in the law department of the Louisville University; in 1855 was a member of the Legislature; in 1856, Commonwealth's Attorney for this Judicial District; married a daughter of IR. S. Todd, of Lexington, Ky.; in 1861 he entered the Southern army as a Colonel and was promoted Brigadier General. Sept. 20, 1863, at the battle of Chickamauga, he was killed. Many testimonials were given of his patriotism, integrity and good judgment. He was buried in the Atlanta cemetery. Captatrn Samuel E. Jidi, from Hartford, Ky., has just located in Owensboro, commencing in partnership with Colonel McHenry. The Hartford Herald speaks of him in the very highest terms. Christopher D. Jackson is one of the very few old settlers now living. He was born on the old Hartford and Bardstown road, nine miles north of Hartford, in what is now Ohio County, Dec. 13, 1797. His father was Christopher D. Jackson, a native of Virginia, and was born in Prince William County and removed with his parents to Botetourt County, Va., when four years old; then moved to Danville, Boyle Co., Kv., and then to Hartford, Ohio Co., Ky., then a fort. He was married here to Miss Catherine Rhodes. They were members of the Baptist church. They had a family of fourteen children; nine girls and three boys lived to be men and women. Christopher D. was the third son and fifth child. He was reared on a farm near Hartford. He married Miss Camnilla L. Shanks, Nov. 1, 1827. She was born in Kentucky. About a month after his marriage in December, 1827, Mr. Jackson moved to Da- viess County, Ky., where he has since resided. At that time there were 625 whites and 518 blacks in the county over sixteen years old. Since that time a part of the county has been given to Mc- Lean and Hancock counties. Mr. Jackson had some 200 acres of land, and four negroes, one of which is still living with him. He also had some 1,200 and a team of horses. He first settled on a part of his present farm in Masonville Precinct, and has resided on this farm ever since. He and wife had four children-J. Han- 126 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. ibal, died, aged one year and ten days; Josephine, died, aged nearly seventeen. James S. married Miss Susan Haws, a daughter of Albert Haws, who was elected three times to Congress from this district. James S. Jackson and wife had five children, four living -Christopher, who married Anna Kroh; Adelle, married James Hickman, M. D., and resides in Owensboro; Albert G., married Laura Terrell; Nina is unmarried. Samuel Jackson died aged six years. Mrs. Jackson died in 1837. Mr. Jackson is now in the eighty-sixth year of his age, and is hale and hearty for a man of his age. He owns a fine farm of 3,000 acres in one tract where he re- sides. He also owns 418 acres in Vanover Precinct and 100 acres in Knottsville Precinct. Mr. Jackson is the largest landholder in the county and the wealthiest man in the county. He is one of our self-made men; he is well read; lie has a large library of his own which contains many valuable books. lie is a Mason and a member of the Sugar Grove Lodge, A. F. A. M. Mr. Jackson gave the two acres of land on which the Sugar Grove church is built. He has held the office of Justice of the Peace nineteen years and was Sheriff of the county two years under the old State Consti- tution. His brother. Julius C. Jackson, was in the battle of New Orleans, war of 1812. His wife was a cousin of Senator Mc- Creery. He has always been a strong supporter of the Democratic party. He is of English, Irish and Getnan, descent; his great grandfather, Henry Rhodes, on his mother's side, came from Hol- land and settled with William Penn in Pennsylvania. His great grandfather on his father's side was Christopher Jackson, who wag born in England, son of an English father and French mother. He and two brothers came to America soon after the landing of the Pil- grims; Chistopher settled in Virginia, one in Maryland, and one in South Carolina. Mr. Christopher D. Jackson, father of subject of our sketch, was a second cousin of old Hickory Jackson, President of the United States. Alfred B. Johnson, editor of the Owensboro Gazette, between 1852 and 1856, was also a member of the bar. James L. Johnson, father of Philip T., was born in Livingston County, Ky., Oct. 30, 1818. lie secured a good education in the common schools of that county, and in 1836 came to Owensboro. He at first studied under the instruction of George Scarborough, an excellent teacher, now living at Vineland, N. J., whose school was then the best in this part of the State. After quitting school he was employed for two years in the office of Circuit and County 127 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Clerk, those positions then being filled by John S. McFarland. While in the Clerk's office he began the study of law under the di- rection of Hon. Philip Triplett, one of the first and most distin- guished lawyers of Daviess County, and at that time a member of Congress. In 1841 Mr. Johnson was admitted to the bar, and opened an office in Owensboro, in connection with James Weir. The firmn was successful in the practice of law, and Mr. J. at the same time took a prominent part in political affairs. He was a Whig and a warm admirer and supporter of Henry Clay. In 1844 he was elected to the Legislature; served one term and returned to Owensboro, where he resumed the practice of law, In the Presi- dential campaign of 1848 his name appeared on the electoral ticket. The following year he was elected to Congress for the Dis- trict in which Daviess County was embraced. He took his seat in December, 1849, and was thus a member of the celebrated Thirty-first Congress, or Compromise Congress, which passed the memorable compromise resolutions of Henry Clay, who was then a Senator from Kentucky. This Congress also has the reputation of being the longest ever held, not adjourning its session till Octo- ber, 1851. While serving his term as member of Congress, Mr. Johnson was married to Miss Harriette N. Triplett, the daughter of Philip Triplett, his old preceptor at law. On returning to Owensboro, Mr. Johnson again took up his profession. A few years silbsequlently lie gave up the active practice of law and de- voted his attention more closely to agricultural pursuits. During the late war he held Southern sentiments. In 1869 he received the appointment from the late Governor Thomas E. Bramlette, as Judge of the Judicial District in which Daviess County is included. He held this position for the unexpired term of Judge James Stuart. George W. Jolly, born in Breckenridge County, Ky., Feb. 22, 1843, is a son of John B. and Rachel (Hardin) Jolly, both natives of Kentucky. He was educated in Hardinsburg, Ky., his tutor being Rev. R. G. Gardiner. He enlisted in the war of the Re- bellion, serving in the Union army. He was licensed and admitted to the bar in 1S67, and has since been actively engaged in his profession. He removed from Hardinsburg to Owensboro in 1877. In 1880 he was one of the Garfield electors. He has the largest collection of law books in Owensboro. He was married in February, 1871, to Sue Henderson, daughter of P. J. Henderson, of Breckenridge County. They have four children, two sons and two daughters. 128 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. J.sper B. Earn, City Judge, Owensboro, is a son of Christo- pher and HI. A. (Bristow) Karn, both natives of Daviess County. His grandfather, who was also named Christopher, was of German parentage but a native of Pennsylvania, and moved from there to Shelby County, Ky., and in 1819 came to Daviess County, settling in what is known as the forks of the creek, where he purchased about 3,000 acres of land and lived till his death. His wife was Leah Boone, the great niece of Daniel Boone. They reared a family of six children, four sons and two daughters, all of whomi married and settled on the tract of land purchased by their father. Christopher Karn, Jr., died in 1878. His widow is still living. They reared a family of seven children, three sons and four daughters, Jasper B. being the eldest son. He lived at home till nineteen years of age, when, having acquired a good common- school education, he began teaching school, which lie followed at intervals till 1869. In August of that year he came to Owensboro and commenced the study of law in the office of Sweeney Stewart. and was licensed to practice by Martin H. Cofer in March, 1870, still remaining, however, in the office of Sweeney Stewart till the fall of that year. In 1872 he began the practice of law in Owensboro. In April, 1876, he was unanimously elected by the Council, City Attorney; served one term, and in 1878 was again elected to fill a vacancy. In April, 1882, he was elected City Judge. In 1878 lie formed a partnership with G. W. Ray, which continued till 1880. May 30, 1876, he married Sallie L., daughter of J. P. Fuqua. She died Dec. 13, 1881, leaving two children- Eva and Virga, the latter now deceased. Win. P. Kent, a young and rising lawyer of Owensboro, is a native of Wythesville, Va., aand is of the seventh generation of a family who have owned and resided upon the lands which their ancestors reclaimed from the forest and the Indians. lHe graduated as Ph. B. at William and Mary College in 1876, and in 1880 lie graduated in law at the same institution. He has chosen Owens- boro for his residence on account of its future prospects as a city. Thomas Landrum, Sheriff 1851-'5, executed the death sentence upon Mr. Richardson, for murder. lie died a year or two ago, in McLean County. Lucius P. Little. Short and simple are the annals of the pion- eer. To the unsteady hand of tradition we owe most of that which yet remains of all that was said and done, achieved and suffered, by those who came to Kentucky as the red man departed. Their 9 129 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. very names are being blotted out from the memories and records of men. Deserving a better fate than this, the name of George Little is here set down. le was born in Scotland about the year 1735. The particular locality of his birth is now matter of conject- nre. The patronymic has longc been known in different parts of that countrv. The station in life of this particular stock in the old country, as well as its history, are both unknown. As tradition eagerly transmits the faintest suspicion of exalted rank, and as it has not done so in this case, the presumption is against its exist- ence. All hopes of ancestral connection with those twin roots of British nobility-the Danish buccaneers and Norman plunderers -are thus forever blighted. For this deprivation Scotia's own bard has furnished the consoling couplet- Rank is but the guinea's stamp; A man's a man for a' that. This -unpedigreed lot is indeed to be preferred, even if it were possible to trace a lineage to that ancient and noble house, ante- dating, all modern nobilitty-founded by the worthy baron alluded to in Charles Dickens' History of Martin Chuzzlewit, as the Lord Nozoo. In early manhood he emigrated from the old to the new world. ifis first known place of residence in America was at Newberry, in the colony of South Carolina. His pursuits were agricultural, and he was so- engaged at the rupture between the colonies and mother country. What his previous political senti- merits had been is unknown, but he was opposed to tile war that ensued. Without fortune or political influence, he asked no more of Government than libertv to pursue, unmolested, his private affairs. Possibly his attachment to the mother country, or kindred left behind, influenced his opinions. A dissenter from the established church, he early joined the Wesleyan movement, which before the Revolution had a considerable membership this side the Atlantic. His religious faith-embracing the doctrine of submission to the powers that be-may have colored his political views. However this may be, when war came and the colonial Government required his services, he enlisted in the A merican army. His military exploits had no chronicler. No record of the nature and duration of his service survives. Nothing more is certainly known than that in an en- gagemnent between the American forces and a detachment of the enemy under Tarleton's command he received a bullet wound in the hip. As the result of this he went to his grave a cripple. The ball was never extracted. Independence and peace finally caine, 130 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. and great rejoicing at the result. But the sturdy Scot still per- sisted that rebellion was a mistake, and died nearly forty years after with his opinion unchanged. He remained in South Carolina until the end of the century. He had married before the Revolu- tion, and his children were born before or during that war. Some time after the war-how long can not be stated-his wife died. His children, five daughters and five sons, reached manhood and womanhood, married, and sought homnes of their own. His old home was thus broken up. Age and infirmity approached, avant courier of the beginaing of the end. On the termination of the Revolutionary war, the exploits of Daniel Boone in the wilderness beyond the mountains were borne by rumor from his old home on the Yadkin to the four winds. Alluring accounts were afloat of the new country-beautiful and fertile, and watered by a river that rivaled the charms of its shores by its own grace and majesty. To the young and adventurous this prospect was irresistible; to all it was inviting. Jonas and John Little, two of his sons, decided to try their fortunes in this new Utopia. With their families they turned their backs on civilization and their old home in South Carolina, and started oil their journey. Their father accompanied them. Their first halting place was in Barren County, in this State. Here they settled in 1802. John Little. becoming dissat- isfied, removed to Tennessee, where he resided until old age. I-He went thence to Texas, and shortly afterward died. George Little aid his son Jonas remained in Barren County two years. They then removed to and settled a few miles north of the Long Falls of Green River, in what was then Ohio County. The town of Vienna at that point on the river had maintained its fitful fortunes from its establishment in 1'T8. It succeeded a fort or block house erected there some years before. In 1848 it was supplanted by the present town of Calhoon. George Little engaged at such farming as sup- plied the wants of that primitive day. He had never acquired anv considerable means, and was dependent on his own exertions- when the time for toil had about passed for him. The Ohio County Court exempted him from poll tax " on account of bodily infirmity," hut not improbably intended in part a patriotic recog- nition of his sufferings for his country. These last years were comparatively uneventful in local affairs in this region. Society was primitive, business limited, and mostly in the farming way. The muster day and the religious meeting were about the only 131 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. occasions when people assembled together. The pioneer necessa- rily lived much alone- - exempt from public haunts; Finding tongues in trees, books in running brooks, Sermons in stones, and good in everything. The war whoop of the Indian had scarcely ceased to echo around the settler's cal)in. Indeed, the Ohio River bounded the Indian country on the south, which reached the great lakes to the north, and stretched from the Muskingum to the boundless west. Bear hunting was still good, deer abundant, and the wolf and panther still lingered. Many years after the death of his first wife he inter- married with Mary Douglass, widow of Alexander Douglass. Her maiden name was Handley. She was a native of Scotland. whence she came in childhood. In early life she married Douglass, of South Carolina. By him she bore several daughters, one of whom (Betsy) married Jonas Little. In 1784 or '5 Douglass came to Ken- tucky in company with his brother-in-law, Captain John Handley. The latter was a surveyor. Their purpose was to examine the country, and survey and locate lands with a view of ultimate set- tlement. They returned to South Carolina, and on arriving in that State they separated to go to their respective homes. Doug- lass never reached his destination, being mysteriously murdered. Time has never unraveled the mystery of his death. After the death of George Little, his widow married Edward Atterbury, of Daviess County, who died in 1824. Mary Atterbary survived several years, outliving most of her generation. From youth to old age she was noted for beauty, the grace of her manners, and the rare charm of her colloquial powers. She died in a green old age, and was laid to rest by the grave of her second husband. She was sister of the well-known pioneer, Captain John Handley, and also sister to IRachel, wife of Anthony Thomson, the first Justice of the Peace in all this region. On the first of February, 1815,- the same year in which Daviess County was establislied,-George Little made his will. le left the bulk of his small estate to his wife. Shortly after-having reached fourscore-he departed this life, or, in the quaint words of his will, he gave his soul into the hand of Almighty God that first gave it, and resigned his body to the earth, " believing that at the general resurrection " he would receive it again. His mortal remains were interred in the Anthony Thomson graveyard (now in McLean County) where his dust awaits the final summons. In personal appearance he was stoutly built, 132 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. rather under than over middle height, with dark hair and eyes, and marked features. He expressed himself freely in conversation, his broad Scotch dialect not being always readily understood. He was always a pious man, being established in his religious opinions be- yond all shadow of turning. He had a clear mind and acute obser- vation. Perhaps he was obstinate, equally in the right or wrong. To express a kindly feeling for Great Britain after the Revolution and during the collisions that culminated in the war of 1812, was not only unpopular, but was defying a very general and heated public sentiment. But to the last the old soldier maintained that under the fostering care of the British Government the American people would have best secured their prosperity and happiness. In the light of all that has followed, who knows This meager and imperfect sketch (doing poor justice to its subject) may serve to remind this generation that the seeds of virtue were brought hither by the pioneers, and that it is the fault of their descendants if there be no fruitage. The pioneers led simple lives and were mostly unlettered, but they realized in large measure all the better and nobler character- istics of true manhood. Martin S. Jlattingly, son of George and Catharine (Miles) Mat- tingly, was born in Nelson County, Ky., Sept. 27, 1843. His father was born in Marion County, Ky., in 1793, and died in Daviess County in 1859. His mother was born in Nelson County, Ky., in 1803, and died in Daviess County in 1874. Martin S. re- sided at home the greater part of his minority, working for neigh- bors and attending the district or subscription school. In his nineteenth year he attended St. Mary's College, Marion County, fitting himself for examination by studying evenings. HIe then taught school for two years in different parts of the county, after which he clerked for Bard Price, of Sorghotown; he was Post master there two years. He worked for J. M. Mattingly Son of Grissom's Landing, about a year, and was thene elected County Clerk of Daviess County, August, 1874, where he is now serving his fourth term. In 1879 he married Belle, daughter of Jesse and Mary (Adams) Moreland. They have two children-Jesse, born Jan. 27, 1880; and Arthur F., born June 17, 1882. HawesA McCreery, only son of Colonel T. C. Mc(reery, was ad- mitted to the bar here in 1880, practiced here until November, 1882, when he moved to Chicago. Hon. Thomas C. McCreery, formerly United States Senator, was 133 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. born in Kentucky in 1817; attended Center College, at Danville; studied law, but turned his attention to agricultural pursuits; was a candidate for Presidential elector in 1852, and defeated; but in 1860 he was elected, and voted for Breckenridge and Lane; was elected United States Senator in February, 1868, as a Democrat, vice James Guthrie, resigned, and served until March 4, 1871. He was elected by 110 votes, against nine for Sidney M. Barnes, Union, and five for Aaron Harding. third party. In the caucus his chief competitors were Jesse D. Bright and Richard H. Stanton. Mr. McCreery was again elected United States Senator, Dec. 19, 1871, by 112 votes, against twenty for John M. Harlan, Republi- can, and served from March 4,1873, to March 4, 1879. Mr. Mc- Creery, before he suffered partial paralysis, was one of the most popular orators of the day; and he has the highest respect of all parties for the faithfulness with which lie served the interests of his State. His very large and valuable library was entirely consumed by fire some years ago. Residence in the southern suburbs of Owensboro, on Frederica street. John G. MceFar7lcnd was Senator 1851-'3, Representative to the Legislature 1859-'6t, and Circuit Clerk 1872-'4. John H. Aki-aeland, Representative to the Legislature in 1848, is the oldest living resident of Daviess County. See Chapter I.- "Early Settlement." John I. Filtcarland has been admitted to the bar, but is now Deputy Circuit Clerk. John S. MeFarlarnd, deceased, was County Clerk in 1831, Cir- cuit Clerk 1832-'45, Representative 1850-'1 and 1862-'5, and Senator 1853-'7. Robert WT jNfFarlcand, son of John H., and his eighteenth child, is a member of the bar in Owensboro. He was a Representa- tive to the Legislature 1879-'81. W. S. McFarlan(d, formerly County Attorney, is also a son of John H. McFarland. He practiced law here some years before the war, and probably a little while after its outbreak. lIe is a IRepublican, and is now a United States gauger at Mt. Washing- ton, Bullitt County. John Hardin McHenry, Sr., came to Owensboro in 1853, and died Nov. 1, 1871, at his residence in the same city. He was oorn in Washington County, Ky., Oct. 13, 1797, the son of Rev. Barnabas McHenry. In 1821 he was appointed Commonwealth's Attornev for this district, which position he resigned in 1839. In 134 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. 1840 he was elected to the Legislature, as a Whig, and in 1850 a delegate to the State Constitutional Convention. At his death he left seven children-Hon. Henry D., Colonel John H., William H., W. Estill, Lemuel S., Mrs. Dr. Hale and Mrs. Robert Craig. Mr. MlcHenry was regarded as one of the best lawyers in the State, and as a high-toned statestnan and Christian gentleman. Colonel John IHrdmn XAclenry, a prominent member of the -Daviess County bar, and particularly known throughout the coun- try for his Union sentiments, was born in Hartford! Ohio Co., Ky., Feb. 21, 1832. His father was an own cousin of the celebrated Colonel John J. Hardin, of Illinois, who took so prominent a part in the Mexican war. He received a fine literary educa- tion, spending three years in West Point Military Academy. In 1857 he graduated in law at the University of Louisville, and prac- ticed his profession in Owensboro until the war, when he raised the Seventeenth Kentueky Infantry, and Oct. 1, 1861, had the first engagement with Confederates fought on Kentucky soil. His regiment also participated in the severe fight at Fort Donelson, under General Grant, and in the field of Shiloh; and subsequently it was consolidated with the Fifth Kentucky, under his commnand. In 1862, -when President Lincoln issued his first proclamation on the subject of emancipation, he took issue with the Government, and published an order to his regiment not to aid slaves in their flight frown their owners, which order resuited in his dismissal from the service. In this transaction the people of Kentucky stood by him. Even the Legislature took up his defense. In 1S63 he made a race for Congress against George Hi. Yeaman, but was defeated, his fiiends being "bayoneted away" fromn the polls. Since then he has followed his profession in Owensboro. The Colonel was one of ten Captains selected by lot, April 9, 1858, by Governor Morehead to serve with their companies in Utah; but before McHenry's company was ordered forward the troubles in Utah were ended by the presence of Generals A. S. Johnston and R. E. Lee, with their forces. In 1881-'2, the Colonel, seeing that the State Legislature and Government of KentucLky placed in responsible positions scarcely any but ex-Confederate officers and soldiers, concluded that it was tine to make a moveniemit in favor of having the Union party of Kentucky represented. He accordingly headed a campaign, known as the " Union Deniocratic Movement," publishing speeches and letters, organizing a party and nominating a ticket. Richard T. 135 HISTORY OF DA vrIEss COUNTY. Jacob,- their nominee for Governor, received 75,000 votes in the State. In 1868, Colonel McHenry married Miss Josie Phillips, of Louisville, a niece of Judge Bland Ballard. In his law practice he has just formed a partnership with Captain Samuel E. Hill, from Hartford, Ky. llenry Mcfenry practiced law here during the year 1882, in partnership with his uncle, Colonel J. H. McHenry. In Jan- uary, 1883, lie returned to Hartford, Ky., whence he had come. A. B. Mfiller, Sheriff of' Daviess County, was born in Mason- ville Precinct, Jan. 13, 1832, and is a son of Fleming and Sallie (Crawford) Miller. His father was a native of Henrico County, Va.; was born in 1791 and came to Kentucky in 1815, settling in Shelby County. In 1823 he came to Daviess County, and settled on the farm now owned by llis son, J. C. Miller, in Masonville Precinct. He died in 1860. He was a soldier in the war of 1812. Sallie C. Crawford was his third wife. A. B. was the second of their five children. He remained on the old homestead farm in Masonville until his marriage, when lhe bought a farm where he re- sided until 1875. He then rented his farm and moved to Owens- boro. He was appointed Deputy Sheriff in 1874, and held that office until 1878. In 1881 was elected Sheriff of Daviess County. Mr. Miller married Miss Mary A. Simpson Nov. 18, 1856. She was born in Todd County, Ky., in 1839, and was a daughter of Payton and Caroline (Foster) Simpson, natives of Kentucky. Mr. and Mrs. Miller had seven children, six living-W. P., Deputy Sheriff; Carrie V., wife of T. B. Demaree, of Louisville, Ky.; Sallie B.; Jatnes E., learning the machinist's trade in Louisville; Charles B., clerking in the Y. M. C. A. roomns at Owensboro, and Tilla E. The mother died Sept. 7, 1877. She was a member of the Baptist church. Oet. 15, 1878, Mr. Miller married Mrs. Alice -Murphy, widow of Geo. W. Murphy and daughter of James Tal. bott. Mr. and Mrs. Miller are members of the First Baptist Church. Mr. Miller is a Knight Templar Mason and member of Chapter 15, Blue Lodge No. 130, a member of the Knights of Pythias and a member of' the Knights of Honor, Lodges Nos. 2,525 and 910. In politics lie is a Democrat and has always been a supporter of that party. He is of German and English descent. James Zacharie Moore, attorney at law, was the tenth of four- teen children, and the son of Dr. Jolhn R. and Mary (Van Pradel- les) Moore, the former a native of Mercer (now Boyle) County, Ky., 136 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. and the latter of Baltimore, Md. He was born in 1845, in Jeffer- son County, Ky. While a boy he showed a strong disposition to enter the army, through West Point, but his father and family, "blue-stocking Presbyterians," were too strongly opposed to it. In 1856 the family removed to Missouri, settling on a farm. Here young Moore followed agriculture during the summer and attended school winters. In February, 1S61, he volunteered for the State militia, but was withdrawn by his father. After the battle of Booneville, however, he could confine his zeal no longer, and with only a 5 bill and the clothes he wore, he left home, in company with another boy, amid a rainy season, swam creeks and rivers and endured many hardships, until, after traveling about 300 miles, they reached Price's army. Mr. Moore was the youngest in the brigade. His term. of enlistment expired in February, 1862, and, after a faithful service during all that time, he quit the army, without having received a cent of pay. He afterward pursued a collegiate course of study two years, and entered the sophomore class at Danville, KEy.; but limited means prevented him from completing the course. After securing a little fund as salesman in Evansville, he entered the junior class at Miami University, Oxford, O., and graduated in 1867, taking the classical honor. Here he established a chapter of the Phi Delta Theta Society, which flourished for many years; and he founded and partly edited a college paper called the Miami Student. Mr. Moore was considered thestrongest member of that graduating class. Next he taught school in Daviess County and pursued a course of reading preparatory to the study of law. He attended the law department of Harvard University, Cambridge, Mass., commenc- ing with only 57' He kept "bach," lived economically every way, and made his little fund go as far as it would. His forensic efforts made him many staunch friends. In 1868 he became a member of the Daviess County bar, where lie has since practiced, earning from the first the highest esteem ot the judges and of the bar. In 1874 he was appointed Register in Bankruptcy. In 1876, as a Republican nominee for Congress, he received the highest vote ever given a Republican candidate. In 1878 he threw his influence in'favor of his former opponents Hon. J. A. McKenzie. In 1880 lie visited California. In 1871 Mr. Moore was married to Miss Anna Kintner. of Har- rison County, Ind., and, saving the loss of a number of their 137 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUYNTY. children, his domestic relations have been happy. His physique is excellent, his appearance prepossessing, his manner dignified, and his mind broad and liberal. In law practice he interposes no quibbles, but uses the telescope rather than the microscope. He is a friend of popular education, has high hopes of the upward prog- ress of humanity, reads and studies a great deal, has an immense library, consisting of the very best works, and his motto is, " The better thought prevails." Priest Moo rinan was admitted to the bar here, and was City Attorney for Owensboro in 1S77-'8. In 1879 he went to Calhoon. Charles N. Ao,'se had an office as a lawver in 1868, in Rudd's building. James A. Mlltacday, present State Senator, is an attorney and counselor at law, and was formerly editor of the ffessenger. El -H. Iiapray, son of David Murray and brother of J. A. Murray, of Cloverport, was born in, Breckenridge County, bre- vetted Major-General in the e service; moved here directly after the war and commenced the practice of law in part- nership with Jas. L. Johnson; in 1870l he left this county, and has since been married. In 1868 lie was appointed U. S. Marshal for the State of Kentucky, and is now Governor of Utah Territory, where he was appointed by President Hayes. Joseph Noe is a member of the Daviess County bar, and is at present the County Attorney. Z-L. OIden was born in Caldwell County, Ky., near Princeton, Aug. 23, 1835. Two years afterward the family movedi to Owens- bor0, since which time the subject of this sketch has been an honored resident of this city. Forty-four years lie lived on a lot now vacant, just north of the Hill block. A year ago he was completely burned out. Ever since lie was sixteen years of age he has had a rheumatism which resulted in making him a permanent cripple, and for twenty years lie has had to use a wheel chair, for moving about indoors. From 1851-'6 he was Deputy PostmtAster, while his father was Postmaster; from August, 1859, to Septem- ber, 1862, he was County Clerk, and from April to September, 1868, Circuit Clerk. In 1859 he commenced also assistant clerk ant the mill, and from 1862 to the present time he has been con- tinuously the clerk. In August, 1866, he was married, and he has two children. Win. T. Owen. of the firm of Owen Ellis, attorneys at law, was born in Kentucky in 1833. He came to Owensboro in December, 1851. After clerking in a store and at the court-house 138 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. for a time, he studied law with Judge Devereux, and after re- ceiving license to practice he opened an office in Calhoon, remain- ing there fourteen years. Hle formed his present partnership in 1872. Wmn. R. Perkins has held the office of Sheriff three terms. He is a native of Warren County, Ky., and was born June 29, 1832. His grandparents on his father's side came from Virginia about 1810, and settled near Bowling Green. His father, Joseph, was born in Warren County; he married, in 1831, Rebecca Talbott, of Butler County. W. H. Perkins was five years old when he camne to Daviess County. He was educated at Bon Harbor and Owens- boro; he led the life of a farmer until lie was twenty-one years of age, when he was appointed Constable and afterward Deputy Sheriff. Most of his life has been spent in business connected with public offices. In 1866 lie was elected Sheriff. May 6, 1862, he married Miss Mildred Duke, of Ohio County. They have three children. Mr. Perkins was politically a Whig, but afterward became a Democrat. He has carried on a farm since he was eighteen years old, and was also for two years engaged in the grocery business in Owensboro, with John Thixton. le has been one of the popular officials of this county. John Piles, Sheriff 1823-'5, was one of the renowned wags or madcaps of the county; and many stories, even at this late day, are related of his amusing pranks and eccentricities. AIcijor John Pop)e, one of the most successful members of the bar, caine from Springfield, Ky., located on a farm below town, and became wealthy. Hle served in the Southern army, and after the war he moved into town and practiced law with Wm. N. Sweeney. I-e died Oct. 29, 1866, a devout Christian, esteemed by all who knew him. J. D. Powers, born Oct. 17, 1844, in llawesville, Hancock Co., Ky., is a son of Stephen and Emily N. (Shrader) Powers. His father was a native of Ohio, and his mother of Haticock County, Kv. Mr. Powers was admitted to the bar in the fall of 1873, at Hawesville, and began to practice there. He located at Owensboro, Dec. 27, 1877, and practiced nearly a year alone, then formed the copartuership with Judge G. W. Williams, which still continues. Politically he is a Democrat; was Assistant Elector in State at large in 1876, on Tilden and Hendricks' ticket; was a member of the Legislature of Kentucky, representing Hancock County in 1873-'4. He was elected Vice-President of First National Bank 139 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. in the spring of 1882. Oct. 19, 1875, he married Clara Hawes, youngest daughter of Hon. Albert Gallatin Hawes, and a native of Owensboro. They have six sons and one daughter. Geo. W. Ray, attorney, was born May 24, 1819, in Washington County, Ky.; was married July 18,1848, to Margaret J. Harris, of the same county. I1 1851 he graduated at the University of Louisville, and in the fall of 1859 he came to Owensboro, where he has since been engaged in the practice of law. G. L. Reinhard, a lawyer in Owensboro some years ago, is now a Circuit Judge, residing at Rockport, Ind. C'amden Riley, Sr., is an old member of the Daviess County bar. He is a native of this county, and moved into Owensboro in 1865. Camden Piley, Jr., nephew of the preceding,-was admitted to the bar in 1878, but is now mainly engaged in, the manufacture of whisky, at Yelvington. H: W. Scott was born in Nelson County in 1814. At the age of eighteen he entered St. Mary's College, where he remained three years, then went to Spencer County and engaged in school-teaching. Nov. 23, 1828, he married Catharine Beard, and continued to teach school for a year longer, then commenced farming in Spencer County. In October, 1852, he moved to Daviess County, where he has since resided. He taught school a while, then bought a farm on the Litchfield road, with intention of devoting himself to agricultural pursuits. He had early in life made himself familiar with the science of surveying, and in this respect his services were so highly valued that at the election of 1858 he was chosen County Surveyor of Daviess County. He retained this position ten suc- cessive years, and in 1868 was chosen Sheriff of the county. He held theposition two terms, and in 1874 was again elected to the same office. Few men have served more faithfully. J. D. Shortell, lawyer; office over the First National Bank, was born in Ireland, in 1843, the son of James and Mary Shortell. They came to this country in 1849, and soon after arriving settled in Owensboro, where the subject of this sketch has since principally made it his home. His father followed the gro- cery business in this city, and died in 1860. Soon after the war broke out James D. and his mother visited their native land, and in the fall of 1864 returned to their adopted home in America. Mr. S. was educated at the Daviess County Academy in Owens- 140 HISTORY OF DAVIES COUNTY. boro, and St. Mary's College at Lebanon, Ky. On his return from Ireland in 1864, fie was employed in the Provost Marshal's office, and in the Internal -Revenue Department, Fourth District of Ken- tucky, from 1865 to 1874,-offices at Lebanon, Shelbyville and Greensburg. In 1876 he returned to Owensboro with the view of practicing law, where he had been admitted to the bar the previous year. Until 1882 he was bookkeeper and cashier for R. Monarch Co., in the whisky trade, and then he was employed by M. P. Mattingly in a similar capacity. Up to 1881 he acted as attorney for the distillers here, representing their interests at Washington. Mr. Shortell is a lawyer of superior talent, and is a keen witted, thorough going gentleman. Robert W. Slack was born in Bardstown, Ky., in 1848; was educated in the schools of that place and at Cecilian College; studied law with James Montgomery at Elizabethtown, and was admitted to the bar at that place in 1870. In 1873 he came to Owensboro; in 1876 he formed a partnership with Judge L. P. Little, which was dissolved in 1880 by the latter being elected Judge, and since May, 1882, he has been in partnership with Jo Haycraft. He was City Attorney 1873-'5. X. G. Stirmarn, attorney, was born in Owensboro, April 28,1858. His parents, Dr. W. D. and R. A. (Wall) Stirmnan, are residents of this city. M. G. was the second of four sons. He first attended the private school of H. P. Hart, and at the age of eleven or twelve entered the common schools, graduating at the high school in 1874; he completed his education at the State University of Indiana in 1879. He was admitted to the Kentucky bar in March, 1882, and has since followed his profession. In 1882 he was elected County Superintendent, and still retains that office. Jame8 Stuart, born March 22, 1820, within three miles of the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln, in Hardin, now La Rue, County, Ky., was a son of Alexander L. and Jane Allen (McLure) Stuart. His mother was of Scotch-Irishl descent, and was born in 1783 in Logan's Station, and died in 1875, within two days of ninety-two years of age. His father was a son of Alexander L. Stuart, whose parents were fugitives from Scotland. His father died on ship- board, and his mother a few months after reaching Virginia. Alex- ander was reared in the family of Colonel McKee, and when sixteen years of age entered the Revolutionary war and served till its close. He then came to Kentucky, and after serving in all the campaigns against the Indians located in Warren County, being 141 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. among its first settlers. He had a family of three sons and five daughters, the most of whom died in early life of consumption. His son, Alexander L., raised a company when nineteen years of age and served in the war of 1812. He was twice married and had three children, a daughter and two sons. He died at the age of thirty-fonr, and his youngest son at the age of thirty. James Stuart is, therefore, probably the only remaining male member of the original Stuart family. His early education was obtained in what was called the old field schools. His professional education was commenced in the office of the noted Jo Allen. He was licensed to practice when nineteen years of age, Jndge McLean be- ing the first and Judge Churchill the second to sign the license. Soon after receiving his license he was married to Mary C. Fair- leigh, daughter of the clerk of Meade County, and located in Brandenburg. In 1849 he was elected to represent Meade County in the Legislature. The Constitutional Convention was provided for at that session of the Legislature. He was a candidate for Circuit Jndge in 1850 but was defeated. In 1856 he was elected to that office, and re-elected in 1862. Having removed to Owens- boro in 1867, he resigned his office and became a partner of Hon. W. N. Sweeney in the practice of law. In 1874 he was again elected Circuit Judge. He was a candidate for re-election in 1880 but was defeated. He is now practicing in Owensboro. He is probably the oldest lawyer in the Green River country. As a lawyer Mr. Stuart has been retained in several of what the lawyers denominate "(Jasus celebres." Of these we mention the following prosecution for murder: The first in order of time was perhaps the Commonwealth vs. Thos. Florence, indicted for the murder of a Mrs. Green, in the Hardin Circuit Court. The case at- tracted such attention that not a Juror resident in the county could be had to sit ini the trials. It was twice mooted before juries brought from other counties but in each instance the result was hung juries,-six for acquitting and six for convictiom,-and, sin. gularly enough, the juries stood in the same form, for in each those who would convict were four for manslaughter and ten years penal service, and two for murder and the penalty of death. The next was the prosecution in the name of the Commonwealth vs. James, George and David Smith, charged with the murder of Dr. Hughes in Hardin County, at Glendale. They were indicted in Hardin County but the venue being changed to Grayson, they were Acquitted amid the plaudits of those who witnessed the trial. 142 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. The defense was placed on the ground of killed in the defense of their father. The case was so noticeable that Colonel Breckenridge was brought from Lexington to prosecute and an able firm ot law- yers in Elizabethtown, also retained in aid of the State's Attorney, and the subject of this sketch taken up from O0wensboro to aid in the defense. The next was the case of the Commonwealth vs. Peyton Kin- cheloe and two others, charged with the murder of Avis Thogmnorton in the Daviess Circuit Court. We need say nothing of this, as the homicide and trial took place in this county and of course the par- ticulars and circumstances are as well known as we could detail them. It may be proper for us to state that the defendant was read- ily acquitted on the plea of self-defense. The Florence case was never tried out,the Governmentafterthe hung juries having "non-prossed" the case. Mr. Stuart was also in the defense of Win. Bell, indicted in the Federal Court at Louisville, for the murder of a colored man, Candiff. This was the first case under what is known as the civil rights law. Bell, after a hung jury, was capitally convicted, but was rescued on a motion for a new trial and finally the case went off for want of jurisdiction in the court. At an early day in professional life Mr. Stuart made a defense for James Dejarnett, charged with barn burning, in the Breckenridge Circuit Court. This case was noticeable on account of the character of the Dejarnett family. As a judge he sat in seven capital cases, and rendered seven capital sentences. In two of these the condemned committed suicide the night before they were to suffer. During the war he had many thrilling adventures and was often captured in the guerrilla raids. He was holding court at Hawesville when the great mob occurred which resulted in the murder of Thos. Lowe in the jail, which at the tine was regarded as the most tragic affair which had ever happened in the State; and we suppose, coupled with subsequent events which grew out of it, nothing could be more dramatic in real life. He was in neither army although offered a colonelcy thrice, pending the war. As a judge it is thought that Mr. Stuart has decided more cases than any other judge in America; for a time he averaged probably ten thousand a year. Mr. Stuart is also a writer, as he has published articles in the press, and has composed some fine poemns,---amonog themn "The Old Dance," " Bob Walker," " Mania a PotN," etc. An extraordina- rily good poem of his was occasioned by his reading an account of 143 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. the discovery of an English mummy with a harp in its hand, one string of which was still in tune, after a lapse of thousands of years! He has a family of three sons and one daughter-William A., Charles, Alfred A. and LeAtie Logan. W. A. Stuart was born in Brandenburg, Meade County, Ky., Sept. 8, 1847. He came to Daviess County, Ky., in 1-867, and has since made Owensboro his home. He was Master Commissioner of Daviess Circuit Court during the years 1876 and 1877. From Jan. 1, 1878, to Sept. 10, 1882, lie was Internal Revenue Collector of the Second District of Kentucky. Hon. William N. Sweeney, one of the leading members of the Daviess County bar, was born in Liberty, Casey Co., Ky., May 5, 1832. His grandfather, Charles Sweeney, was a native of Virginia, and on emigrating to Kentucky settled in Casey (then Lincoln) County, where Joel Sweeney, the father of William N., was born. Joel married Obedience Edwards, of Garrard County. Mr. Sweeney obtained his early education in his native town; was afterward a student in Bethany College, West Virginia. At the age of seventeen he began to study law with his father, who was educated as a lawyer, but had practiced his profession very little. He subsequently pursued his legal studies with McDowell Fogle, one of the first lawyers of Liberty. On his admission to the bar he began practice at Liberty, at the same time occupying the position of Deputy Clerk of the court. He came to Owens- boro, May 4, 1853, and commenced practicing law. Iit 1854 he was elected County Attorney, and held the office four years. In January of the same year he was married to Lizzie Rodgers, of Owensboro. In 1856 he entered into a partnership with R. H. Taylor, which continued six or seven years. In 1860 his name appeared on the Breckenridge electoral ticket for Kentucky. In 1S66 he was a candidate for Congress in the Second Congressional District, and was defeated by John Young Brown, by one vote. In 1868 lie was nominated for the same office bv the Democratic Convention, and was elected over Langley, of Henderson, the Re- publican candidate, and H. 1). McHenry, Democrat. He served one term ably and honorably. Declining a re-election, lie resumed his practice at tlje bar. In 1863 lie formed a law partnership with John Pope, which continued three or four years. Mr. Sweeney is celebrated among the members of the bar for the rapidity and accuracy displayed in his drawing up of legal documents. He is a close reasoner, a logical speaker, convincing 144 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. by argument and reasoning rather than winning by rhetoric and eloquence. Though distinguished most by civil practice, he has been engaged in nearly all criminal cases of importance. He was one of the leading lawyers in the case of the Common wealth vs. the Kincheloes and Luckett, for the murder of Throcknmorton, one of the most noted cases tried in recent years in Kentucky. The prosecution was ably conducted by the late Phil. Lee, of Louisville, at that time considered the most successful prosecutor in the State. Mr. Sweeney's particip)ation in this trial gained him much celeb- rity, and -his speech on giving the case to the jury was regarded as a remarkably fine effort. His standing at the bar is such that for the last ten years he has been chosen on one side or the other of every important case tried in the Daviess County courts. James J. and Wmi. C. Sweeney, sons of the preceding, are in partnership with him in the practice of law. G. W. Swoope, attorney and counselor at law, Owensboro. A. 0. Tanner, a resident of McLean County, practiced a little in the courts of Daviess County; he is now at Evansville. E. P. R. H. Taylor are attorneys, whose office is over the First National Bank. E. P. is a native of this county, located in Owensboro in 1873, and was admitted to the bar in 1875. His age now is about thirty-two. Richard H. was born in Daviess County Ky-., Jan. 29, 1835. He was reared on a farm and educated in this county. In 1858 he commenced the practice of law ill the courts of Daviess and adjoining counties. He has been a member of the City Council and has been City Attorney for Owensboro several years; has also been Master Commissioner of Daviess Circuit Court. He was a Director of the Planters' Bank several years, and was subsequently its President. When the bank was changed to the First National Bank of Owensboro, Mr. Taylor still continued its President. He is practicing law and carrying on a farm of 130 acres a mile and a half southeast of Owensboro, where lhe resides at the present time. He also owns 480 acres near Yelvington, 200 acres in Hancock County, city property in Owensboro, and thirteen acres adjoining Owensboro. He was married in December, 1858, in Jefferson County, Ky., to Mary Fielder, a native of St. Louis, Mo., born in September, 1839. They have four children-Gibson, born Aug. 1, 1861; Susan, September, 1863; Samuel P., March, 1874, and Zach, May, 1880. Clinton K. Tlaip, lawyer, was born in Marion County, Ky., 10 145 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Oct. 28, 1848. His early education was received in the common schools of Daviess County, and his collegiate at Cecilian College, and at the Kentucky University at Lexington. He subsequently studied law and graduated in the law department of the University of Michigan. Was a member of the Legislature 1877-'9, from Daviess County. In 1880 he moved to Washington County, Ind. Joseph T]'oias, Teller of the First National Bank, of Owensboro, was born May 1, 1822, in New Orleans, La., the son of Joseph and Eliza (Weissenfels) Thomas. Before he was five years of age General Jackson, when on a visit to New Orleans, gave him a half dollar bearing the inscription: "Gen. A. Jackson to J. Thomas, January 11th, 1828. " He has sacredly preserved the gift through prosperity and adversity, and indicates his purpose to hand it down to future generations. The coin was made in 1806, but is only slightly worn. When ten years of age his father died, and the family moved to Bardstown, Ky., where Joseph wvent to school, attending St. Joseph's College four years. In 1837 he came to Owensboro, where he was still further educated under the direction of Mr. Scarborough, a most excellent teacher. On entering the responsibilities of a more independent life, Mr. Thomas, being a fine penman and accountant, struck out in the mercantile line, first entering the dry-goods store of T. W. Watkins, then in the same trade alone, next a flouring mill, which was ultimately burned, then a saw-mill, pork trade, etc. He was Circuit Clerk of Daviess County six years, then deputy under John P. Thompson about three years, and then succeeded Mr. Thompson as Circuit Clerk again for a few months. Since 1873 he has been connected with the bank formerly called " The Planters, " and now The First Na- tional. Mr. Thomas was married Jan. 16, 1844, to Miss Sarah Watkins, a native of Maryland, who died Nov. 7, 1856, leaving four children. Act. 5, 1857, Mr. T. married Sarah Al. Grissom, and she died July 21, 1878, leaving two children. There are now living five children of Mr. Thomas', namely: William, in Mem- phis; Alice, nowlMrs. Burkhart, in Owensboro; Pell, clerk on the Anchor line of steamers between St. Louis and Memphis; Joseph, Jr., employed in the First National Bank of Owensboro; and Alfred, at home and attending school. Mr. Thomas has been a successful business man, but has met with many serious misfort- iunes-losses by fire, sickness and death. It is worthy of mention here that Mr. T. kept an elaborate diary for nearly thirty years of his life, which is described more fuilly in the chapter on " Meteor- ology." 146 HISTORY OF I)AVIESS COUNTY. Phil. Diompson, one of the first three lawyers resident in Daviess County, figures very largely in Chapter II. of this book. The old portion of the Upper Ward brick school-house was built by him, in consideration of a certain number of land warrants signed over to himn. He is principally rement)ered as one of the parties in the famous duel with Robert Triplett. He himself was afterward killed by Mr. Jeffries in November, 1836, on the left- hand side of Frederica street, between Main street and the river. There was a quarrel between them growing out of the burning of some property which the other owned. It is stated that the only living witness of that famous duel is Colonel Jesse L. McRocklin, now a resident of Blanco County, Texas. He started from Owensboro for that country during the great star-fall of Nov. 13, 1833, and has never returned to this place but once since then, and that was two or three years ago on a visit to a relative. John E. Timms was a practicing attorney at law in Owensboro in 1868 at least. Office in Rudd's building. C. S. Walkerwas admitted to the bar in South Carolina in 1870; moved to Kentucky in 1871. He has been practicing law n Owensboro since September, 1871. In February, 1880, hle became a member of the law firm of Weir, Weir Walker.. James Weir, of the firm just mentioned, has been for many years one of the most influential citizens of Kentucky. See Chapter IX, "Authors and Artists." John G. Weir, a son of the preceding, is a member of the firm of Weir, Weir Walker. D. Ki. Weis was a lawyer of Oxvensboro a few years. Geo. Weissinger, who was once a lawyer here, is now in Louis- ville. J. .31. Wells is a fine lawyer now doing a prosperous business a Horse Cave, Ky. This is his native State. He was admitted to the bar in this circuit and was practicing here in 1878. Georye W. Williawns is one of the oldest members of the Owens- boro bar, and one of the most prominent lawyers in this part of the State. He was born in Breckenridge County, Nov. 7,1814. His parents, Otho and Mildred Williams, were Virginians, and among the earlier emigrants to Kentucky. Their five children were Nathan A., James R., William A., Hugh T. and George W., who is the youngest. Judge Williams worked on his father's farm until the age of twenty, and he grew to maturity without acquiring even the rudiments of an English education. His attendance at the schools 147 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. of that vicinity did not exceed nine months. In 1835, by the kind- ness of two of his brothers who had settled in Louisville, he was enabled to attend a better class of schools than lie had found in his native county. He there entered the school conducted by Messrs. Cissell and Hanover, where lie made considerable progress in the higher branches; but his means and time were too limited to admit of anything like thoroughness in any department of learning, and he has deeply felt the want of better and more extended scholastic training. In 1837 he located at Helena, Ark., where lie taught a private school during the year 1838; but losing his health, he re- turned to Louisville, and entered the office of Thomasson Boone as a law student. In 1840, having obtained a license to practice law, he located at Hawesville, the county seat of his native county, in the vicinity of which lie continued to reside, farming, practicing his profession, and presiding as Circuit Judge of the district, until lie located at Owensboro, where he has been actively engaged in his practice since September, 1870. In 1841 he married Mary W. Hamilton, daughter of Andrew Hamilton, a farmer of Hancock County. She was born in Franklin County, Ky. Mr. and Mrs. Williams raised five children-Hamilton, married Nannie Hall, daughter of Major Wm. F. Hall, and died leaving one daughter; Jane, wife of Judge W. P. Baker, resident of Daviess Countv; James R., now deceased; Mary Ruth, and Hugh A., who was admitted to the Daviess-Countv bar in 1881. I udge Williams has but little taste for official positions, holding that as a general rule " private station is the post of honor," and enjoying with keen appreciation that freedom from restraint of thought and expression which official positions usually impose. He has, however, departed occasionally from this principle; in 1850-'1 he served in the Legislature of Kentucky as a Represen. tative from the counties of Hancock and Ohio, receiving, against two formidable competitors, every vote in Hancock County, except thirty-seven. In 1856 lie was chosen a Buchanan elector in the Second Congressional District. In 1857 he was nominated by the Democratic party for the State Senate, but was defeated by John B. Bruner, Esq., of Breckenridge County, who was the represen- tative of the "American party," which had an overwhelming major- ity in the district. Hie was an ardent supporter of John C. Brecken- ridge for the Presidency in 1860. In 1867 lie was elected Circuit Judge of the Third Judicial District, which office he held until January, 1870, when he resigned the office. In this year lie was a 148 This page in the original text is blank. I I1-.!P!-e- I,-- rfblY Of 04 Y H 'p I ..'.. ,C. I ..1, 1. . -t 040 'Oe. Rfvw, HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. candidate for the office of Judge of the Court of Appeals in the Fourth Appellate District, but the Democratic party having de- termined to make a political nomination for the office, he withdrew his name from the canvass upon the ground that he was unwilling to accept that high judicial position under a political nomination; but at the same time felt it his duty to defer to the judgment of his party in their determination to make a political nomination for the office. Judge Williams co-operated with the Whig party until it was absorbed by the American party in 185, since which he has uni- formly acted with the Democratic party in all political contests. lHe was an ardent sympathizer with the Confederate movement, and urged that the State of Kentucky should unite with the other Southern States and make common cause with them. his sym- pathy with the South led to an order for his arrest, to avoid which he exiled himself in Canada. The war being over he accepted its results, and holds that duty, patriotism, and honor demand a united co-operation of each section for the common interests of all sections of a common country. Judge Williams is distinguished for his industry, and the assiduity with which lhe devotes himself to whatever he undertakes. He holds that unremitting application to business, rather than the gifts of nature, is the basis of success in the practice of law. In August, 1882, lie was a candidate for the office of Superior Judge for the Western Judicial District of Kentucky. A plurality of delegates were instructed to vote for Judge Williams; he was defeated. ilugh A. Williams, son of Geo. W. Williams, Esq., was admitted to the bar in 1882, and he has his office in the same room with his father. J. G. JVnfrey came here from Virginia in 1877, practiced law for awhile, and moved to Evansville, Ind., where he is now follow- ing his profession. George Hcbin Yeanman was born in Hardin County, Ky., Nov. 1, 1829. Had a grammar-school education, studied law at home, without a preceptor, was admitted to the bar in 1851, and without having had any experience as a practitioner removed to Owensboro in 1852. One of the first cases of any importance he ever tried was Dickens against Calhoon and others, in McLean County, an action of ejectment, placed in his hands by an eminent lawyer of Elizabeth town, Ky. 149 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. While striving to establish himself professionally, he became editor of the Owenslhoro Gazette, a weekly, bya way of employing spare time, and adding somewhat to his limited income. Although his editorial labors did not at all interfere with his attention to business, he has always regarded his connection with the paper as a mistake, tending to divert from him recognition as a lawyer. One editorial, in opposition to the repeal of the Missouri Compro- mise, attracted wide attention and comment. In August, 1854, while practicing law and editing the Gazette, he was elected County Judge of Daviess County, which office he held for four years. Although such an office was an honor to so young a man, and though hle could and did continue his practice in the Circuit Courts and Court of Appeals, he discovered that the position rather retarded than advanced his principal aim-to be- come eminent in his profession-and declined to be a candidate for re-election. He was married Nov. 20, 1855, to Lelia P., daughter of Robert Triplett. After the expiration of his term as County Judge, he continued to practice, both in the Circuit Courts and the Court of Appeals, until the breaking out of the civil war, when, in Au- gust, 1861, he was elected to the Legislature of Kentucky, by a small majority. The canvass was one or the most active, heated, and earnestly contested ever made in the county. le was the candidate of what was known as the Union party, opposed to se- cession, and opposed to calling a convention to consider the ques- tion, the Republican party having at that time a very small following in the State. The following session of the Legislature covered an important and critical period in the history of the State. Before his term of two years had expired, he was, at a special election, held in Oc- tober, 1862, elected to Congress from the Second District, to fill the vacancy caused by the death of General James S. Jackson, and serv-ed one session. In August, 1863, lie was re-elected, and served the full term. While in Congress he advocated and voted for the Constitutional Amendment abolishing slavery in the United States. He became a candidate for re-election, and in August, 1865, was defeated, though securing a larger vote than when elected. In the autumn of 1865, without any solicitation or application on his part, he was named as Minister to Copenhagen, and sailed for that capital in October. 1865. While residing at Copenhagen lie wrote and published the " Study of Government." Early in 150 HISTORY OF DA VIESS COUNTY. 1870 he tendered his resignation, but relmlained at his post until his successor arrived in October, when he took leave of the Danish Government and returned to the United States. Ile did not resume the practice of his profession in Kentucky, but settled in New York, where he has since resided. Since removing to New York he has taken an active interest in the labors of the Bar Association of that city, has been Vice-President and President of the Medico- Legal Society,-and for several years was lecturer on Constitutional Law in the Law School of Columbia College. In politics Mr. Yeaman, as a young man, was a Clay Wlig,. of the protective tariff school, but is now an ardent free-trader. After the disruption of the Whig party, Ile advocated the election of the Bell and Everett ticket. In Congress he co-operated with conser- vative border State Union men, such as Crittenden, Griden and Wadsworth of Kentucky, and Rollins of Missouri. After the po- sition of affairs became such as to render, in his opinion, that course impracticable, if not unwise, he sustained the Republican party, as a moderate, not radical, member of it, and in New York has of late sided with the Garfield Republicans, called I" lhalf-breeds " by the stalwarts. John C. Yeiser was a lawyer in Owensboro, in 168 at least, in partnership with B. H. Triplett. lartib Yewell, the present County Attorney, was born and raised about three miles from Owensboro, southeasterly. Was Dep- ut.y Sheriff for a time. Present office, with Owen Ellis, north side of the public square. Colonel Charles S. Todd, a distinguished politician and statesman, was for many years a resident of this bounty and was the son of the late Thomas Todd, who filled the high office of Judge of the Supreme Court of the United States. He was from near Danville, Ky., on 22d January, 1 791, and graduated with high reputation, at the ancient university of William and Mary in Virginia in 1809, and in 1810 attended a course of lectures in Litchfield, Conn., by Judes Reeves and Gould. In 1811 he established a law office in Lexington. but at that time the second war with Great Britain broke out and he took part in the contest, and in 1812 volunteered his services and was elected ensign in one of the companies from Lexington, though before the march of the troops in August, was appointed to a situation in the Quartermaster General's Department which made hitn, the acting Quartermaster of the advance, of the left wing, of the North- 151 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. western Army. In December he was appointed into General Harrison's staff, as Division Judge Advocate of the Kentucky troops. In this capacity he was the bearer, 100 miles across the wilderness on ice and snow, of the confidential instructions from the Commander-in-chief to General Winchester, previous to the dis- astrous affair of the river IRaison. McAfee's History of the war, Butler's History of Kentucky, and Judge Hall's life of Harrison, all speak of incidents in this campaign, in which Ensign Todd's enterprise and intrepidity were highly commended. He was appointed to a vacancy of Captain in the Seventeenth Regiment of Infantry, and after commanding the recruiting rendezvous of the regiment at Newport, was transferred to an original vacancy in the Twenty-eighth Regiment of Infantry attached to the brigade of General Cass and was appointed aid to General Harrison. During the summer of 1814 Major Todd acted also as Adju- tant General of the district and is thus handsomely noticed in General McArthur's report of the expedition into Canada during that fall: " I have the support of the troops in assuring you, that to the military talents, activity and intelligence of Major Todd, who acted as my Adjutant General, much of the fortunate, progress and issue of this expedition is attributable." In march following he was promoted to the position of Inspector General with the brevet rank and pay of Colonel of Cavalry. Upon the disbandment of the army in 1S15 hle returned to his profession at Frankfort, and in 1816 married the youngest daughter of Governor Isaac Shelby. Soon after he wvas appointed "Secretary of State" by Governor Madison. Colonel Todd resigned this office upon the death of Gover- nor Madison, and the year following was elected to the Legislature from Franklin County, and again in 1818. In 1820 Colonel Todd was appointed Minister to Colombia, South America, upon a confidential mission, with the pay and duties of a ctarge daffab'ire8. He returned to the United States in 1S21, and resumed his position at the capital of Colombia in 1822, bearing the recognition of the independence of that Government. At the close of the mission to Colombia, in 1824, Colonel Todd returned to the United States, and established himself upon a tract of land in Shelby County, originally located by Governor Shelby. In 1837 to '39 he served as a commissioner in the Presbyterian General Assembly, in Philadelphia, by which the separation was effected, he sustaining the Old School party. In 1840 lhe was invited by the 152 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. committees of Ohio and Kentucky, in connection with the late Benj. Drake, of Ohio, to prepare sketches of the civil and military history of General Harrison. He then assumed the editorial charge of the Cincinnati Republican, devoted to the support of General Harrison's claims to the Presidency. Colonel Todd accompanied General Harrison to Washington, and remained with him as a member of his family during the short interval that he occupied the Presidential chair, and as the last sad office accompanied his remains to North Bend, and by request of Mrs. Harrison selected the spot for his burial. On the death of Harrison, President Tyler, desiring to carry out the wishes of Harrison, appointed Colonel Todd Envoy-Extraordi- nary to St. Petersbnrg, and John Lathrop Motley was chosen first Secretary of Legation, and they reached St. Petersburg early in November, 1841. The Emperor of Russia held him in high esteem, and he was elected a member of the Imperial Agricultural Society, the only compliment of the kind ever paid an American citizen. His mis- sion to Russia expired in 1846, and lie returned to the United States. In 1S50 he accepted a mission, in company with Robert B. Campbell and Oliver P. Temple, tendered them' by the United States Governmlent, to treat with the Indian tribes on the borders of the United States and Mexico. Colonel Todd was among the first of American statesmen who allocated and demonstrated the practicability of the Pacific Rail- road from the Mississippi, through Texas to El Paso, and 'was elected Vice-President of the road upon its organization, and held that position up to the breaking out of the late war. Colonel Todd then removed to Owensboro, and was appointed United States Assessor by President Lincoln for Southwestern Kentucky, which position he retained during the war, when his feeble health and increasing years would not permit him to engage any longer in public life, and the last years of his life were spent with his children in Owensboro, Ky. He was reared in the mil- itary school of Harrison and was a pupil in the diplomatic school of Monroe, and with his ripe experience in public affairs and high mental accomplishments, united to courteous and graceful man- ners, was worthy to have been associated with such eminent patriots and illustrious statesmen as Madison, Monroe, Adamns, Harrison, Clay and Webster. After having discharged faithfully and with ability all the duties of the man, the soldier, the patriot and states- 153 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. man, he died at an advanced age, while otl a visit to his grand- daughter, at Baton Rouge, La., May 16, 1871. Robert S. Todd, born Dec. 7, 1856, in Daviess County, is a son of David F. and Jane H. Todd. He lived on a farm till the fall of 1865, when his parents moved to Owensboro. During the fall of 1873 he taught a district school for a short time, and in the winter of the same year entered the county clerk's office as deputy; continued in this office till December, 1877, when lie was appointed Master Commissioner and Receiver for Daviess County Circuit Court; continued till September, 1880, when he resigned and procured license to practice law, at the September term of 1880, of Daviess Circuit Court. He began the study of law in 1875, while lie was in the clerk's office. On the 15th day of March, 1881, he formed a partnership with Geo. Wr. Jolly, and isnow engaged in the practice of his profession. He was married April 8, 1879, to Carramn P. Thrustum, daughter of Colonel A. S. Thrustum (deceased), a Colonel in the Texan war. They have one daughter, Jeane D., born Jan. 26, 1880. Burr H. T-ilptett was a prominent lawyer in Owensboro for a number of sears. George V. Triplett, editor of the Saturday Post, is a member of the bar. See Chapter VIII., " Thle Press." Geo. W. Triplett. The life of Judge Triplett has been closely identified with the historv of Daviess County for many years. Forty-two years ago he came to the county, and in his public career has filled the position of County Surveyor, member of the House of Representatives, member of the Senate of Kentucky, member of the Confederate Congress, and Judge of the County Court. The original three brothers of the name of Triplett were doubt- less the ancestors of all by that namne in this country. Judge Triplett's great-grandfather, John Triplett, emigrated from England to Virginia at a date which reaches back to the colonial period. His grandfather, also John Triplett by name, was born in Culpeper County, and followed the profession of public surveyor, holding a commission from George III., then King of England. The struggle of the thirteen colonies for their independence found hiim on the side of freedom. He joined the patriot army together with five of his sons, whose names were John, Roger, William, Nathan- iel and Hedgeman. The last and the youngest of these, Hedgeman Triplett, became the father of Judge Triplett. He was born in Culpeper County, Va., about the year 1760. He was only six- 154 HISTORY OF DAYlESS COUNTY. teen years of age when he ran away from home, at the beginning of the Revolutionary war, to join the army. At eighteen lhe was made Lieutenant and served till the conclusion of the struggle, doing his share of the fighting at Guilford Court-House, on the field of Cowpens, and of Brandywine. Himself and all his -brothers except Roger, who was badly wounded, were present at the battle of Yorktown. John and Roger were Captains. After the war, about the year 1782, Hedgeman married Miss Nancy Popham, daughter ot Job Popham, who was sent over from England to dispose of those who were exiled for minor crimes. He was a descendant of Sir John Popham, who came to Massa- chusetts as an agent of the Government to establish a colony that failed. Job's wife was a Miss Nall, of Virginia. Hedgeman emi- grated to Kentucky and settled in Scott County, stOppillg the first season at Bourbon. He lived in Scott County ten years, then moved to Franklin County, where he died in 1837. He had in all a family of twelve children, ten of whom grew to maturity; three are living. Nancy married Edmund Poe and died at the age of ninety-five; Betsey Gravett is now aged ninety-six; Mildred mar- ried Mr. Wright, and died at the age of eighty-six; William is in Platte County, Mo., in his eighty-sixth year; Hedgeman died many years ago in Franklin County, Ky.; John was killed in a steamboat explosion near New Orleans; Frank died at the age of about thirty- eight, and was buried on Island No. 10. George W. Triplett, the subject of this sketch, was born Feb. 18, 1809, in Franklin County. Ky. His early education was limi- ited, but at the age of sixteen he pursued the study of grammar, geography, surveying, trigonometry and other branches in a school of higher grade than ordinary. In 18F7 he began teaching school in Scott County, and taught for six consecutive years. Oct. 18, 1827, he married Amelia A. Head, a native of Scott County, but whose ancestors were from Orange County, Va. While teaching school Mr. Triplett began surveying, and served two or three years as Deputy County Surveyor. In 1833 he came with his wife and three children to Daviess County, and reached Owensboro, Oct. 30, same year. He commenced farming about two miles from Owens- boro, and the subsequent year he took charge of the school at Owensboro, which was under his care for nine months. He also turned his attention to merchandising, but surveying was his prin- cipal employment. He was engaged in this pursuit for seventeen years, and his long experience entitles him to the rank of veteran 155 HISTORY OF DAVIESS corNTY. surveyor in this part of Kentucky. There is no part of Daviess County over which le has not sighted his instruments and measured the lines. From 1836 to 1840 he carried on a wood-yard at Bon Harbor, on the Ohio, three miles below Owensboro. In the politics of the day he bore a prominent part, and sympathized with the Whig party. He was first elected to the Legislature in 1840, and was kept there three successive terms. In 1848 he was elected by the Whigs to the State Senate, and ably represented the counties ot Daviess and Henderson. The commencement of the civil war found Judge Triplett in ardent sympathy with the Confederate States. In May, 1861, he enlisted in the service, and for three years belonged to the Army of the Ten- nessee, first as Captain in the First Kentucky Cavalry; next as Major in Brigadier-General Helm's staff, commanding the Kentncky Brigade; then on the staff of John C. Breckenridge. During his three years connection with the Army of the Tennessee Mr. Trip- lett never asked leave of absence, never had a furlough, and was absent only one day from duty. In 1864 he was elected a member of the Confederate Congress, sitting at Richmond, to represent the Second Kentucky District, composed in part of Daviess County. He served in the Confederate Congress till the defeat of the South. On his return home he found his property destroyed, and the necessity before him of beginning life over again. A year after coming back to Owensboro he was chosen County Judge of Daviess County and occupied the position until Sept. 1, 1878. Judge Triplett has had eleven children, six sons and five daughters. Of the sons, Captain Robert S., born in 1830, owns the upper wharf boat in Owensboro, and is agent of navigation comn- panies; Joseph F., born in 1834, is a stock-raiser and rancher at Camp H1alleck, Nev.; wvent there in 1852; Captain John H., now running the H. M. Sweetzer, has followed steamboating, since he was sixteen years of age; George W., Jr., born in 1849, now residing at Aspen, Col., in nining and land agency. Two sons, Willie and Daniel, died in infancy. Of Judge Triplett's daughlters, Mary married James M. May, and died in 1854; Sallie died in Owensboro aged about twenty; Margaret married S. J. Howard, and is now living in Lyon County, Ky.; Amelia married John Jewett, and resides in Nevada, near Elko; Octavia married Dr. J. H. Seaton, of Kansas, and died several years ago. Judge Triplett now co-operates with the Democratic party, and is known as a man possessing honesty of purpose and a faithful servant of the people. 156 HISTORY OF DAXIESS COUNTY. Phil. Triplett, a younger brother of Robert, commenced the practice of law in Owensboro about 1824, in an office owned and fitted up by his brother. He came to be a leading member of the bar in this Judicial Circuit, following the Judge around, who made his tour twice a year. In 1S26 he was elected to the Legis- lattire, and afterward twice to Congress; in 1849 hle was elected to the State Constitutional Convention. He married Betsey Hopkins, of Henderson County, and had twelve or more children, but only two of these lived to be grown and married. One married John Green, who died during the war, and the other married James L. Johnson, and died last fall, leaving only one child, Dr. Phil. T. Johnson, as the representative of the family. United States Senator George C. Vest, of Kansas City, Mo., was once a practicing lawyer in this county. He came from Frank- fort, Ky., his native place, to Owensboro, about 1852 and edited the Gazette about two years. when he moved to Booneville, Mo., and afterward to Sedalia. He served in the Confederate army un- der General Price, and served three sessions in the Confederate Congress, and was a member of the' Senate when the war closed. He is a remarkably shrewd man, and is now well known through- out the nation, as a formidable competitor of Northern statesmen. 157 CHAPTER VI. THE CIVIL WAR. When, on the 12th day of April, 1861, the news by telegraph reached the citizens of Daviess County that the bombardment of Fort Sumter had commenced, they scarcely knew what to think or say. The sympathies of some were with the Federal Government, and those of others with the South; and nearly all deplored the incoming of war. Being on the border, many did not know which way to turn, or which way the State of Kentucky herself would turn. It is to be taken as granted, however, that whatever public course any man chose to pursue in the terrible ordeal, his motives were patriotic. He either stood up for the party he honestly thought was originally right, or for what seemed to be the quickest way to end the fratricidal war. In other sections of the country further south or further north, the citizens flew to arms, as they would be expected to do, with extraordinary readiness, within a few days or weeks after the outbreak; but here the people had to hesitate, although, it is to be supposed, with the sanme degree of patriotism. The State of Kentucky was at first very desirous of remaining neutral, and so did the people of Daviess County; and accordingly " Home Guards," for the protection of property and life against marauders were organized all over the State. These were volun- tary, and not under any military authority. One such company was organized in Owensboro, in July, 1861, but-events so turned out that it was of little or no avail; Sept. 5 Joseph I-I. Millett raised a company of about seventy men, mostly from this county, and joined the Confederate army in Tennessee, as Company K, Fourth Regiment. On the 13th lie was elected Captain,.and Nov. 19, 1863, lie was promoted Major. He fought at Shiloh, Vicksburg, Baton Rouge, Jackson, Chicka- mauga, Mission Ridge, Rocky Face Gap, Resaca and Dallas-at which last peace he was killed May 28, 1864. Previously he had received several wounds. In this company were also the follow- ing men from Daviess County: David C. Hughes, First Lieutenant, afterward Captain; Geo.W. Rogers, Second Lieutenant; James Hand- (1-58) HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. ley, James Thompson, Horace Al. Watts, A. M. Hathaway, George Faith, Elisha Adams, Win. Bradshaw, James M. Bowles, Green B. Cooper, James Donaldson, George Disney, James Forbes, Wm. H. Forbes, Albert Frazier, Win. C. Fletcher, Matthew Garrett, Wm. Goodwin, Turner Griffin, James Hayden, H. B. Hayden, Jerry Hennessey, Joseph Jarboe, Miles C. Jenkins, Edward Lamb- din, Wim. Lashbrook, Crawford McClarty, Enoch C. McKay, Wm. E. McDonald, J. D. May, John Mattingly, Burr Norris, Green B. Partridge and John R. Partridge. Sept. 9, 1861, J. H. McHenry and John Grissom commenced recruiting for the U. S. army. The latter, however, did -not enter the service; but MlcHenry raised a regiment, the greater portion from Ohio County, and the next in numbers, from this county. This regiment was numbered the Sixteenth Kentucky. On the 24th the Colonel came with 400 or 500 men from Hartford to Owensboro for equipment. Sept. 21, 1861, Brigadier-General Robert Anderson, of the United States Army, at Louisville, announced his assumption of the command of the Department of the Cumberland. Sept. 25 the gunboat Lexington was anchored opposite Owens- boro, to protect the place, and probably also the Union soldiers. Two days afterward the gunboat Conestoga took its place. Oct. 2 the steamer HettieGilmore arrived at Owensboro from Louisville with Colonel Jackson, and during the night it was watched by the home guards. The next day Colonel Jackson's cavalry and Colonel Burbridge's infantry, all of whom came by boat from Louisville, encamped on the fair grounds. Colonel Jackson had a presentiment that he would never come out of his first battle alive; and, sure enough, lhe was killed in first action at Perryville. On the 4th the camp here was named, " Camp Silas F. Miller, " after the proprietor of the Galt House in Louisville, who is still a resident there, and a leading Republican. The next dav Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson, of the regular army, arrived, and on the 7th he was made Provost-Marshal of Owensboro. On the 9th Colonel Hawkins and 400 men, with two six-pounders, ar- rived in Owensboro, on the way to Rumsey, on Green River. Oct. 21, first battle in Kentucky. It took place in Laurel County, between Zollicoffer, of Tennessee,and Colonel Garrard. The former was afterward killed at the battle of Mill Springs. On the 24th four six-pounders arrived at Owensboro, and on the 29th 251 horses came down river on a packet and were taken to the camp. Nov. 1 159 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. a good many Union troops passed Hartford for a Southern field. On the 4th, Colonels Jackson and Burbridge, with cavalry, returned from Hartford, but two days afterward two companies of cavalry left for Calhoon, where the Federals began to rendezvous, and "Camp Silas F. Miller " was gradually broken up. Nov. 16 these Colonels, with 600 or 700 men, went to Hender- son, there being rumors that Confederate troops were marching in that direction; but the rumor proved to be without foundation. During the month of December mercantile business was greatly embarrassed by the embargo laid on commerce along the Ohio, by the Government. Owensboro merchants could not get their prod- uce in Indiana delivered across the river, even when there were several thousand men back of the city to protect it. Colonel Crufts wvas the immediate commander to enforce this prohibition, which lasted for some time, and back of him was Officer Robinson, at Evansville. 1862.-At the beginning of this year the chains of war began very perceptibly to tighten their clanking hold upon a helpless peo- ple. Even newspaper circulation was prohibited to some extent, and citizens of nearly all classes began to be arrested for suspected disloyalty, or persecuted and robbed by guerrillas for having any strong sympathies in any direction. J. G. McFarland, HI. S. El- liott and others were arrested on the 9th of January, on charge of assisting deserters from the United States army, at Calhoon, to cross the river into Indiana. On the 11th they were taken to Louis- ville, but were afterward released. But this was generally the case. N early or quite all who were arrested for disloyalty were detained in camp at Louisville, or elsewhere, for awhile, and soon released, without anything more done. These arrests were often made, appar- ently without any discrimination. Feb. 19, etc., a great many boats and troops caine down the river. On the 23d George Moorman (son of S. M. Moorman) and others passed up the river to some point, as prisoners, but were soon afterward released. On the 26th Captain Behr's bat- tery of eight guns arrived from Calhoon and passed through Owensboro. Feb. 27 General Thomas's brigade passed down the river. During this month four regiments, two Kentucky and two Indi- ana, Colonels Hawkins and Burbridge, came from Calhoon and embarked on eight steamers for Tennessee River; and while they were here the Grey Eagle brought a dispatch from Evansville 160 HISTORY OF DAX IESS COUNTY. that Fort Donelson was captured by the Federal forces. Colonel McHenry's regiment was engaged in that battle, but none of the Daviess County soldiers were killed there. March 2, Captain Behr's battery left on the Aurora down the river. April 8, John T. Higdon, a soldier from this county, was killed at Pittsburg Landing. His remains were afterward brought home and buried here. May 11, Commodore Foote passed up the river on the gunboat De Soto. June 16, E. A. Hathaway, Dr. S. S. Watkins, Mr. Barber and others were arrested by the Provost Guard at Louisville, Captain Blood, on charge of " aiding and abetting " the Rebellion. Most of them were required to take the oath of allegiance to the United States, and were all released in a few days. June 19, " minute men " organized at Owensboro. June 20, Dr. J. F. Kimbley was arrested by guerrillas, but was directlv released. His horses and buggy were stolen. June 21, about 200 soldiers here fron Louisville. June 25, a company of cavalry arrived. June 30, Union flag raised on the court-hlonse. About these times arrests were made almost daily by the mil- itary authorities, and for a time a picket guard was kept around the city of Owensboro. July 18, J. M. Hany, being ordered to arrest Vawters on account of hurrahing for Jeff Davis and publicly exulting over the occupa- tion of Henderson by the Confederates, was resisted; and the latter, swearing that he would die, etc., before he would be taken, was shot and killed. On this day also a company of horse guards was or- ganized in Owensboro, to protect the town against marauding bands. Geo. H. Yeaman was elected Captain, Jo Harrison First Lieutenant, and Joseph Thomas Second Lieutenant. This com- pany, however, was not long kept up. July 21, a company from Terre Haute, Ind., here. July 27, Aquilla Spray attacked and wounded by guerrillas at Curdsville. Augoust.-During this month Mr. Yeaman endeavored to raise a regiment, but failed. Aug. 21, I. P. Washburn arrested and sent off, but soon returned. Aug. 29, Lieutenant-Colonel Netter arrived from Hartford with a number of men. The whole number of en- 11 161 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. rolled militia in this State was ascertained to be 101,378; that of Daviess County, 1,999. Sept. 19- TIlE SKIRMISUL NEAR OWENSBORO. About sunrise on Friday, Sept. 19, a band of about 850 guerrillas advanced upon this post, in three divisions, under the command of Lientenant-Colonel Martin. One division, numbering 385. underthe command of Major J. S. Scobee, a Methodist ininister, took possession of Owensboro. A second division, under Captain Taylor, numbering 225, marched from a southwest direction; and the third division, un- der the command of Captain Merriweather, numnbering240, from a westerly direction. As Major Scobee was marching in he was rec- ognized by a pious Methodist woman, who in immediate ecstacy cried out, " Thank God ! my Savior has come." Very soon a Confederate soldier was stationed at each street crossing, and efforts made to obtain what equipments and aminu- nition were within reach. During the day the soldiers took all the saddles and bridles there were in Mr. Littell's shop, and some of M r. Scott's; also, what powder they could find in the jail and some of the stores, and were on the point of robbing the stores by whole- sale, but were restrained by the officers. Judge Geo. H. Yearman and several others were arrested and taken away a short distance, but soon released. From the Judge was exacted a promise to use his influence against the indiscriminate arrest of Southern synmpa- thizers-which, indeed, lhe had all alone been doing. About eight o'clock this morning Major Scobee sent a flag of truce to Colonel Netter, in camp at the fair-grounds, and demanded his unconditional surrender; but the latter peremptorily, yet politely, refused. About one o'clock in the afternoon the M ajor, with his men, retired on the gravel road to Panther Creek. Colonel Netter, immediately after his refusal to surrender, formed his men, made all necessary arrangements, and marched against Cap- tain Merriweather with 200 men, leaving the cannon and 140 men to protect the camp. His advance guard, under Adjutant Stout, discovered the enemy in ambush, in a corn-field. Colonel Netter flanked thein, and wvhilst leading his men in action, and in the act of climbingf over a fence, lhe was shot, with a squirrel rifle, by one or the enemy who had a white handkerchief tied about his head; and he himself immediately had all his brains blown out by a Un- ion soldier named W. C. J. Adams, of Company A. The report that Jamies Fanlds was the man who killed Netter is probably not true. At the same instant Colonel Netter, as he was shot, sprang to his 162 This page in the original text is blank. \V. i . I i..1 1..v.,:- I -.- - . looGb I . ..II :.... I : HISTORI OF DAVIESS COULNTY. feet, turned to his command, and with a clarion voice, amidst the crashing reports of muskets, called out, " Forward! charge bay- on-" and fell. On seeing him fall, the left of the line gave way, the center collecting around him amidst the deadly storm of bullets and buckshot from the enemy. The right also fell back. Adjutant Stout immediately assumed command and rallied the men, reform- ing line, advanced, and at the point of the bayonet completely routed the enemy. This action lasted half an hour, resulting in the death of Colonel Netter and the wvounding of Lieutenant Cherry, John London, A. W. Wallace and Mr. Taylor, on the Union side, and in the death of twelve and wounding of fifteen or twenty on the other side. According to previous arrangement, squads of soldiers were de- tailed to Rockport and Enterprise, Ind., who gave the alarm, and within a few hours Colonel Wood, of the First Indiana Cavalry, was on hand and assumed Colonel Netter's place. Soldierv from across the river, to the number of 400 or 500, arrived during the after- noon of Friday as fast as they could be transferred in skiffs, and at the last the steamer Ben South brought the remainder of the Warwick County boys over, and also took the remainder of the Spencer County troops to their homes. The steamer McCombs also was impressed into service and brought about .300 Indi- ana farmers over toward night. Three companies of home guards also came into town, while many citizens left for parts un- known, to avoid the contingencies of a cruel siege or battle. Sept. 20- THE BATTLE AT SUTHERLAND'8 HILL. This was the only battle that occurred within the limits of Daviess Countv during the " civil war." We will give first a coin- plete history of the affair as told by the Federals, and then note the differences from their story as claimed by the other side. During the night they were searching the enemy, and about breakfast time Saturday morning (Sept. 20) they came up with them on the gravel, or Livermore, road, about a mile and a half south of North Panther Creek, and on the farm of Mr. Sutherland, which is eight to nine miles from Owensboro. The Federals num- bered 342, and were commanded by Colonel Wood, of Evansville, and James Holmes, of Owensboro. The battle opened with a run- ning fight three quarters of a mile north of Sutherland's, sixty of Netter's Cavalry driving the rear guard and cannon that distance 163 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. into the lane that goes up to the house. Here the Confederates, about 400 strong (or even more, according to some), were posted, under Colonel Martin and Major Scobee, with one line drawn up in the lane and another over in the meadow, at a right angle to the first, with the cannon, a six-pounder, in front. The Federals, nuin- bering 340, were commanded by Colonel Wood. Major Townes charged up the lane, exposed to the flanking fire of the battalion and cannon in the field; but his men and horses, being untrained, were thrown into confusion at the first fire of the cannon, and all except about twenty fled. For a few moments then no Federals were in sight of the enemy; but the infantry soon came up, took position along the main road in front of the meadow and corn-field adjoining it. The Confederates advanced to meet thetn and a des- perate fight ensued, when the enemy retreated a little way and formed in array again; but again were they driven back, when, for the third time, they endeavored to make a stand, just beyond the crest of the hill, but in vain; they scattered in every direction, but not pursued by the Federals, all of whomn were infantry, except about two dozen. The Federal loss in this battle was: Killed-Curtis Lamar, Sampson Palmer and Isaac Varner-three; wounded-John Cal- hoon and one other man, seriously, aid a half dozen others more slightly. Imnmediately after the battle Colonel Wood detailed a squad of men to count the Confedeerates ling upon the field, and their report was thirty-six dead and over thirty wounded. The names of four of the killed and seventeen of the wounded are given in the Owensboro Monitor of Sept. 24, 1862. Some of the slain were buried there. About a thousand Federals remained to hold Owensboro. The Confederate account concerning the two days' events differs from the foregoing principally in the following particulars: Their forces here were a branch of tie regular army, and not guerrillas; they committed no robberies in Owensboro or in the country any- where; they were not quite a hundred strong at the battle at Sutherland's; they retreated simply because their ammunition gave out, and retreated in good order; they lost but one or two killed, one commnanding officer not remembering that any one was killed outright, or that any wounded (very few at- most) were left upon- the battle-field (if any were left, they felt confident they were left among friends, who would take care of them). It must be understood, however, that accounts vary on both 164 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. sides, some Confederates estimating their loss as high as seventy or eighty (probably counting the prisoners, deserters, etc.), and the Federals not all agreeing as to every detail. We add a few minor incidents. When musket firing commenced at Sutherland's Hill, Colonel Wood shouted out, " Boys, wheel about that cannon, facing the enemy, " and he himself lighted his cigar with a match, and fired the gun-the first and second rounds with cannister shot, and the third a solid shot, which was so heavy that it broke off the flange and rendered the cannon useless. When the Colonel and John Hicks were marching up the hill, a rifle shot was apparently received, when the Colonel fell as if dead. Hicks remarking that he was killed, the former jumped up and called out, "No, I ain't; but (pointing to a particular man among the enemy) kill that d-n rebel. " The Confederates rendezvoused afterward at some point on Green River, but were soon driven away again. The Federal forces were coming and going on the next Monday and Tuesday; nearly all the citizens were under' arms for awhile, until the excitement died away. rITE DEAFTH OF COLONEL N'M'ETR. The following account of the death of Colonel Netter, furnished us by one of his soldiers, and now one ot the best citizens of Owensboro, is so well worded that we give it veibatiin: On that eventful morning of the 19th of Sept., 1862, under cover of a dense fog, the enemy (800 in all) gained possession of the town to the number of about 400, while an equal number concealed themselves in the wood to the west of our camp, thus placing us between two forces, either of which was doubly superior to our own. -Our Colonel having received unreliable information of the pres- ence of the concealed enemy, at once decided to reconnoiter in that direction and ascertain if the report was true. While arranging his 'forces, a flag of truce was seen approaching from the direction of tlill town. He motioned for the bearer to come, and advanced a few paces to meet him, where-a short conversation ensued. I-e then returned to us accompanied 1)!- the officer of truce, and with the utmost politeness and a sweetness of tone so characteristic, he addressed us as follows: 165 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. ' Boys, this officer comes with a flag of truce, from Lieuten.- ant Colonel fartin, who with 800 guerrillas has possession of the town, and demands of me an unconditional surrender of all my command and the Government property in miiy possession. I want you to hear my answer." Then, turning to the messenger, with a graceful motion of the hand, and with a firm voice and tone, he realied: " NEAVER, till the last man of w's lies lot in ithe dust." Then turning to us, sweetly and gently he inquired, "Boys, does my answer suit you" Inspired with admiration for, and confi- dence in, our brave and undaunted commander, what could we do but jnst what we did and that was to swing our caps in the air and respond with three lusty cheers. The rebel officer, witnessing the impressive scene, shared in our admiration of the young hero, for he reverently removed his hat and feelingly replied, " Colonel, I cannot but respect you and your brave men," and with a parting salute, lhe returned to deliver his message. There was no acting in all of their scene; it was serious, sober, honest reality. With the exception of a few words of command, these were the last words ever spoken by the gallant Netter. At the head of his little band of about 200 all told, lhe marched in the direction of the supposed enemy. He found them there, and in the skirmish which ensued hle fell bravely, fighting to make good his words. Colo)nel Gabriel Netter was a Frenchmian by birth, but a true American by adoption. At the breaking out of the war lie was doing a profitable business in Ohio County, this State. but left it to enter the arny. lie soon exhibited a great degree of goodl jdg- mnelt as well as bravery, and lhe was recalled from the field by General Finnell to raise a regiment in this Congressional District. lie was devoting his whole time and energy to the work lie had in hand, when the day of disaster visited hiln. He was very pop- ular atnong his ine, as well as amnong the people of Owensboro. Ile was a " shining mark " at which death aimed his fatal blow at the beginning of his power. WAR DIARY RESUMED. iSt62, Sept. 22, President Lincoln issued his emancipation proc- lamination, to take effect, conditionally, Jan. 1, following. This is the epoch of a new era between the political parties, disaffecting Union inen who were not Abolitionists, and rendering all Demo- crats, usIpecially thle Southern wing, more bitterly opposed to Republiean managemient. 25, Major Jiolmnari in comumnand at Owensboro. 166 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Oct. 6, conrt-house door barricaded. On the Tth all was quiet again, and the county officers resumed their places. Colonel Shanks' men came from Cloverport and were consolidated with Netter's. Oct. 9, Q. L. Shanks was elected Colonel and A. W. Hol- man Lieutenant-Colonel. Oct.12, Shanks moved the camp down to Bon Harbor, or rather the Barrett farm near there, a healthier loca- tion, and being at a greater distance from town the discipline of the soldiers would be the easier. Named " Camp James F. Robin- son." Oct. 24, people very much excited at rumors of Confeder- ates coming to Hartford; but the rumors proved false. Oct. 30, 300 Confederate prisoners pass down theriver for Vicksburg; exchanged. Noveniber.-Militarv affairs in this vicinity tolerably quiet all this month. December.-Confederates were assessed for Union losses, and some money collected; but the plan worked very hard and un- evenly and was soon abandonel. On tile 11th, General Boyle ordered Colonel Shanks to refund what he had collected. Dec. 12, Shanks' regiment left for Mnmfordsville. During this month an " additional article of war " was published oy the Government, aiding fugitive slaves; and Colonel John H. McHenry, one of the best soldiers and commanders the Govern- ment ever had, considered the order unjust, unconstitutionai and even disloyal. He therefore, as commander of the Seventeenth Kentucky Infantry, issued an order returning slaves to their mas- ters from his camp. Ile was consequently dismissed from his position. He has ever since then had the sympathy of the Daviess County public with him. Tile year 1862 closed with gloomy prospects of the war ending; and James Weir deliberately reviews the national situation at length in the AJ0onitor. 1863, Jan. 1, the Emancipation Proclamation dampens the ardor of many Unionists. President Lincoln had at the beginning of his term declared his intention not to interfere with slavery. Jan. 28, Captain Wilson's company left. Feb. 21, a company fromn Colonel Foster's regiment from In- diana arrived here. Feb. 22, no packet arriving at Owensboro-I the Government had impressed her into military service. March 3, the Legislature resolved " that we have witnessed with pride the gallant conduct of Colonel John 11. MceHenry, Jr., late commander of the Seventeenth Kentucky Volunteers, and do 167 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. heartily endorse and approve the order made by him in October last-construing it, as we do, to mean that lie would expel from his lines, and permit their owners to take in possession, all run- away slaves found within his camp." Feb. 2, the House of Representatives unanimously passed a spirited report and resolution, arguing the hardship and injustice of the slavery requirement, and asking the President of the United States to rescind the order dismissing Colonel McHenry; but the Senate, after repeated sessions upon the matter, Feb. 25, passed the foregoing resolution. April.-Guerrillas stealing horses in the county. May 17, J. P. Thompson surrendered himself to Captain Horn- brook in the morning, and was sent off on the Grey Eagle at ten o'clock in the evening. On the same day, Jo Morris, Graham Hughes, Jo Sebree and others were brought in by the Federals as prisoners. May 23, flag presentation to Captain Hornbrook, of the Sev- enty-lifth Indiana, who was a very popular man. June 3, J. R. Grissom. Provost Marshal of this district, ranking as Captain. June 17, town excited over the report that 500 Con- federates were at Hardinsburg. Report proved to be erroneous. About sixty Confederates crossed over into Indiana and were all captured. July 9, town excited about John Morgan at Brandenburg. 12, Colonel Foster and 400 mnen left up the river. July 28, flag raised on the court-house lot; speech by Win. B. Wall. July 29, Colo- nel Foster issued an order requiring all persons to take the oath of allegiance at the approaching election who are suspected of dis- loyalty; the order was carried out. July 31, martial law declared in this State by General Burnside. No dislovalist to vote or run for office. Oct. 3, Colonel Starling's regiment, the Thirty-Fifth Kentucky, Federal, mustered into service. Oct. 26, J. H. McHenry is Colo- nel and M. McIntyre Lieutenant-Colonel of the militia. Nov. 24, Company D, of the Thirty-Fifth Kentucky, stationed here in the court-house yard. 1864.-During the spring of this year negro enrolling com- menced, and their freedom from slavery encouraged. Joseph Thomas and several others visited a negro military camp near Indianapolis, for the purpose of obtaining indemnity for citizens of Daviess County for the loss of their servants, but they were 168 ISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. treated in a very ruffianly manner. Directly before their eyes, one negro loaded a gun and called upon his fellows to join him, saying, with reference to Mr. Thomas particularly, " There goes the d-d rascal who has the papers! Shoot him! G-d d-n him!" Captain Snow, a white man there, said he could not control the ruffianly conduct of the dark soldiery, and he guessed Mr. T. would have to take care of himself. Colonel Russel, who was not there, afterward said that if he had been present he would have prevented such insolence. April 11, Captain Prange and his company left. No soldiers here. April 21, Joseph Thomas received the agency to procure cornpensation for owners of slaves who bad run away and en- listed; but never was a dollar paid for this purpose. April 22, Owensboro citizens expecting guerrillas again to night. Great ex- citement about them. April 22-30, negroes running away in great numbers, crossing the river into Indiana. May 13, fifty-eight men drafted in Daviess County for the Fed- eral service. May 20, citizens of Owensboro watching to-night for guerrillas again. Federal picket fired upon. May 26, Prange's men quartered on Confederate families. May 27-31, negroes enlisting in great numbers; great exciterment. They thronged the Provost Marshal's office so boisterously that vio- lence was fearedand they were taken to the fair-ground in a body and sent back to the office in small squads for enlistment. May 8.--About this time some ten or twelve young men from the vicinity attempted the rash act of making their way to the Confederate army. and among them was James T. Mitchell, sixteen or seventeen years of age. On their way thither they encountered the Home Guards of Ohio County, about seven miles from Liver- more, when a skirmish ensued, resulting in the killing of this youth and the capture of Captain Vickers, of Forrest's Cavalry, and sev- eral other soldiers, who had a hearing before Captain Grissom on Sunday evening, and were remanded to jail in Owensboro. The remains of young Mitchell were brought here and appropriately buried. May 20, excitement on account of guerrillas in the county, whose intended depredations were headed off by Captain Grissom calling the Home Guards together and sending out scouting parties. June 1. seventy-eight negro soldiers sent to Louisville. June 5, Captain Howard, with sixty or seventy men arrived. June 6, 165 negroes left on the Grey Eagle. Captain Prange's men killed 169 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNrY. two and wounded two guerrillas. June 13, Prange's company left. Woodward's six-months' men quartered in the court-house. Negroes all left. June 21, no crossing of the river allowed; skiffs all taken out, and boats guarded. June 22, 200 Confederates re- ported in Hawesville and expected here. Those that appeared at Hawesville, however, soon left. June 18.-Powers arrived from Hawesville with about a score of negro recruits on board a small steamer, and marched them to the court-house square, intending to quarter them in the court-house with Colonel Woodward's State Guard of white soldiers; but the latter refused to let them in. Both sides were called to arms, and a fight almost ensued. The colored recruits were then quartered in the jail, with nothing to eat, and under locks and bolts for about twenty-four hours. June 23.-Early this morning a squad of forty guerrillas came into Owensboro on the Litchfield road, circled around the cemetery and disappeared out oln the Hartford road. Soon afterward a small party of " graybacks, " bearing a flag of truce, came into town on Frederica street, demandinog, in the name of Jones, the surrender of the place, saying that tile town was beleaguered by several hundred Confederate troops. Colonel Woodward, who had com- mand of the small force of State troops here, declined to surrender. The "Confederates " then retired in the direction of Calhoon. Their pickets were in front of the residences of Messrs. Weir, John- son and Griffith, and several men were in the fields near Major Smith's house, while the whole body were very near, having come in on the Hartford road. They claimed to be 275 strong, and to be of Adam Johnson's reguirent and Morgan's command. They said, they had been in the Cvntihiana fight, and come down through Shelbyville and Bardstown. They left the county without doing much damage. After dinner the six-inonths' troops were disbanded, and no sol- diers left in Owensboro. The guns which they left in the court- house (poor ones) were afterward mostly taken by a guerrilla squad- On the 27 th, at night, they took a horse from S. M. Wing. Busi- ness dull; about suspended. Tle August court ordered to be sus- pended. July 3.-Captain Prange and solIe 200 men came in, scouting. July 5, two guerrillas in town; stole another horse from Mr. Wing, taking it from a burggy. Their names were Tanner and Nave, and they were captured by Captain Yarber, about four miles out on the 170 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Livermore road, anddelivered over to the gonnboat, No. 23 (Sil- ver Lake). Mr. Wing was a merchant, and at one time was Pres- identof the Owensboro branch of the Southern Bank, principal bank at Hopkinsville. July 6, at a negro ball in the upper end of town in the evening, an attendant sent up a rocket, just for fun, and the commander of the gun-boat, suspecting guerrillas, signaled with a cannon and threw a shell uip in that direction, which alarmed the citizens generally, mnaking, them believe that guerrillas were, in- deed, in town, and that a bombardment had commenced. KENTUCKY UNDER MARTIA.L LAW. July 1 1, Captain Wilson brought in " Warren," a guerrilla, but he was soon released. July 12, sixty men, under Lieutenant Forrest, of the Fifty-Second Kentucky Volunteers (Federal), came in. July 13, Charles Carlin arrested and sent to Louisville; four men killed near Ifine's Mill, in Ohio County. July 16, Forrest's inen left. July 22, Powell and Thompson, guerrillas, were shot at Henderson, by order of General Burbridge, in retaliation for the guerrillas killing Colonel Poole, a citizen of that place. By way of rejoinder, Walker Taylor, commander of the guerrillas, issued a proclamation that he would retaliate by killingfoiw. July 24, guerri las in the county again; robbed Jesse Pott;. Daring the last days of July, the gun-boat Silver Lake, or No. 23, stood in the river opposite'Owensboro. The packets, before landing, had to land at her side and put the mails off. No traveling or shipments of produce were allowed except under permit front Captain Coyle, according to the orders of General Ewing prohibiting disloyal persons from shipping or receiving freight of any kind. At this time negro recruiting went on rather slowly, but their crossing over into Indiana progressed briskly. On boarding Cap- tain Coyle's gun-boat, lie said he cotuld not permit them. to be taken off against their will. While the people generally wished there were no negroes in the State, they hated to see them go in this way. August.-In the early part of this month an Owensboro platlol- manl fired at a colored man and missed him, the ball passing near the gun-boat; whereupon the latter fired 100 musket balls along the bank. Aug. 4.-Colonel jBishop and colored soldiers arrived at 11 P. M. Aug. 6, Circuit Clerk locked up his office, as the colored in- 171 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. fantry had the court-house as quarters. Aug. 8, about 200 negro soldiers came up from Henderson. Aug. 23, 165 more arrived from the same place. Aug. 25, they all left at night. Aug. 15, Captain J. C. Cowin, of the One flundred and Eighth Colored Infantry, after a little fighting, captured nine guerrillas at Yelving- ton and brought them to Owensboro, where they were confined in jail. Aug. 16. Captain Yarber arrested, under order of Colonel Bishop, his men disarmed, horses taken from them, and they disbanded. The Captain conld show no authority for his proceedings. Aug. 18, Benedict D. Mitchell, the jailer, was shot by mistake by one of the guards, who had orders to shoot any one making his appear- ance in the jail-yard that night. Mr. Mitchell, not knowing that such an order had been given, appeared in the yard about 2 o'- clock in the morning, for the purpose of attending to some neces- sity. Aug. 27.- OWENSBORO CAPTURED. On the afternoon of Saturday, Aug. 27, as unexpectedly as a flash of lightning from a clear sky, something over twenty guerril- las, under Captain Bennett, dashed into town. They first announced their presence in front of the court-house, by the rapid firing of revolvers, sometimes in the air and sometimes at fleeing citizens and at store and office doors. They accompanied this demonstra- tion With orders for all persons at once to repair to the court-house yard; and these orders were " sanctioned " with the wickedestpro- fanity. They thus advertised themselves to the guerrillas at once. One fellow dashed " horse, foot and dragoon " into Blair, Queen Co.'s store, drivino, its customners pell-inell into the rear yard. Such a stampede, of all classes of people, fromn the central part of town toward the outskirts was never before nor since witnessed in any other place during the war. It was ludicrous as well as ex- citing. It was remarkable with what agility the people shot out of the back doors and windows of the stores and offices and hid themselves in boxes, barrels, privies, dog kennels, deep weeds, etc. We wish we had space to rehearse some of the " hair- breadth escapes," ludicrous i" feats Of agility " and serio-comical situations that were witnessed on this occasion. The invaders succeeded in huddling 200 or 300 citizens together into the court-house yard. The commander, " Jake Bennett," pro- posed to burn the court-house, and even the banks if their money 172 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. was not given up, but lhe was dissuaded from it by R. L. Boyd and other citizens. The robbers entered onlv one store, and that was the jewelry establishment of Mr. Bradford, in care of Mr. Zulauf, from which they took three gold watches, valued at 700. They also took a few horses from Clint. Griffith, Ridgely Griffith and George Smith. Burning qf the Whaif-boat.-Bnt by far the worst thing they did was to burn Messrs. Ayers Elders' wharf-boat, with a number of human beings confined upon it. They mistakenly s5upposed that considerable Government freight was upon it. The private prop- erty consumed was estimated at about 6,000. Nine colored sol- diers, said to have been the guard that conducted the Yelvington prisoners to Louisville, were at this boat. They first fired at the guerrillas, and then concealed themselves within, for a time; but it is said that three jumped off, ran up the bank and escaped. Two of them were shot by the murderers and thrown overboard, and the charred remains of one more was found on the boat, the fire being extinguished before the hull was consumed. Three negroes took refuge in the hull, and were cut out by Mr. Ayres after the maraud- ers had left. They pleaded piteously for theirlives and declared they were anxious to return to their owners. Lieutenant Walters, pre- viously of the Third Kentucky Cavalry, was killed during the affray. A lot of Government stores on the levee were fired just before they left, but the most of the property was saved afterward by the citizens. These guerrillas were here but one hour, and they left on the Litch- field road. Aug. 28, the gun-boat Lou Eaves took away many negroes. During this month, according to the .Aonitor, the negro soldiery in Owensboro behaved very well. Th Court-House.-This was a convenient building for military occupation; and it was wonderful to witness the rapidity with which it was transformed from a civil establishment to a military, and the reverse. When the former change was made, the doors were perforated and disfigured by rude openings to fire muskets through, and were rendered ball-proof toiom without by heavy oak timbers nailed on the inner side. Tihe windows, to the height of a man's head, were barricaded with planks a foot apart and the space between filled with dirt, leaving openings to fire through. In this work of fortification, all the benches in the court-house were cut up, and other lumber was used. Even the planks were stripped from the fence around the yard. Some ditching was also done about the 173 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. yard-for rifle-pits or for a stockade. On the re-occupation of the court-house by the civil officers, a day or two only was required to transform all back again to old time appearances. Sept. 7, Colonel Moon and 118 colored troops arrived at the fair- ground. Sept. 11, about 200 negro soldiers went to Henderson. During this month the independent companies, commanded by Captains Wilson, Yarber, Johnson, Little, Boyd and Burger, were dissolved by General Burbridge, because they were acting too much the part of guerrillas. Governor Branmlette had authorized these men to recruit companies for the purpose of clearing this part of the State from guerrillas; but the soldiery became too reckless with the property of peaceable citizens. Yarber and Philpot were par- ticularly implicated. October.-Guerrillas reported in all Darts of the county, but the reports were greatly exaggerated. Oct. 10, One Hundred and Eiahteenth Colored Regiment left Owensboro. Oct.11, provost marshal's office closed, and marshal left town. Oct. 17.-Abont half-past two o'clock on the morning of this day, about twenty-five armed men entered town, seized the Sheriff, Jno. G. Harrison, placed him coatless and hatless upon a horse, although the air was biting cold, and took him out on the Litclifield road a few miles, threatening to kill him, but released himn about dawn, furnishing him a coat and giving him some instructions as to how he should conduct himself in the future. About 4,500 worth of goods was taken from the merchants. The raid was conducted very quietly. OWENSEORO TAKEN AGAIN, this time by thirteen regular Confederate soldiers about noon. Most of these were officers, and after they remained here quietly for several hours, the mail packet Morning, Star hove in siglht, when all was astir. Nearly 200 additional Confederate soldiers at the same time appeared from. the upper part of town, under Major Anderson, intending to take the steamer, believing that negro soldiers were aboard. A few of the soldiers in advance went to the wharf and endeavored to decoy the boat to the landing, but in vain. They fired forty or fifty shots, but only one touched the boat, doing no damage. The Confederates were here about two weeks, but it can hardly be said that thev "1 held " the place. United States officers and State officers all went about their daily routine of dutV as uncon- 174 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. cerned as it no enemy was within a thousand miles. The Confird- erate soldiery behaved themselves quite well during their sojourn in Owensboro. During the latter part of this month (October) the Confederate Government talked of conscripting here, but the task was never undertaken. Some Federal troops, however, stationed on an island opposite the city, wantonly fired into the place occasionally, and at one time seriously wounded an eight-year-old boy. Nov. 1, three companies of colored soldiers arrived, and quartered in the court-house. Nov. 2, a colored picket killed. 6, a guer- rilla shot J. Taylor's negro, robbed and hung up Mr. Cavin (who lived in the country) two or three times, and robbed others in the co untiy. During a war nearly all wicked men are tempted to be robbers, because they can then carry on such work under a sort of military guise and thus elude punishment. Nov. 17.-Thomas S. Pettit, editor of the Owvensboro Mlonitor, arrested for disloyalty and sent across the lines, via Memphis, within the bounds of the confederacy. When the facts attending the arrest reached the ears of President Lincoln he pronounced it unjust. Nov. 20, news received that this county wass exempt from draft. Great rejoicing. Dec. 20.-A large body of Confederates reported near Ctirdsville. Dec. 22, great excitement about the Confederate soldiers. The Tarascon detained here. The pickets and soldiery under the Confederate Walker Tavlor kept up firing for some time during the afternoon near Owensboro, just southeast of the city. About sunset a flag of truce was sent into the city and a surrender demanded, but it was refused. After. spending most of the night sociably with, the Federal officers in the court-house, Major Taylor took his departure, say ing that as he had no disposition to injure the town, he declined making any attack. 1865, Jan. 4, the court-house burned by Davidson and his inen; the records and furniture mostly saved. Davidson had orders to destroy every court-house that had been occupied by negro troops. Probably two or three other court-houses were burned in the State, under these orders. This destruction was expected, and the county officers had time to save the records. Mr. Thomas took all the records of his office (circuit clerk) and deposited the most of them in the vestibule of the Methodist church, and the rest in Captain Hall's building. The other records were taken care of by the re- 175 HISTORI OF DAVIESS COUNTY. spective officers. The Confederates had no permission or desire to burn the records. Another account says that a man named Coulter was the Commnander-in-chief of the court-house-burning gang, and that he acted without authority from the Confederate Government. He and his men were doubtless a part of Davidson's force. Coulter is said to have been a tall, fine-looking man, trim built, and having very keen eves. Four revolvers were buckled around him. The Planter's Hotel had also been used as barracks, and it was rumored that it was to be burned also. Coulter was appealed to, and he de- clared with an oath that no more buildings should be burned; and lhe actually impressed citizens into aiding him to prevent further violence. Davidson was formerly a Federal Captain in Colonel J. H. Mc- Henry's regiment, the Seventeenth Kentucky Infantry. Ile re- signed and went into the Southern army and became a guerrilla. He was a very violent man, and made himself notorious by acts of felony and arson in this portion of Kentucky. At one time he was arrested, carried to Louisville and placed in prison; but he imme- diately made his escape and came down into this section, where he continued his mischief. A few days after he burned the Owens- boro court-house he was killed in a skirmish with Federal soldiers in Breckenridge County, Ky. He was a fearless and brave man. His father was Dr, H. A. Davidson, of Hawesville, who killed himself in an abortive attempt to blow uip a Mr. Sterrett with an "infernal machine." Jan. 11.-In the morning the steamer Grey Eagle arrived at Owensboro with a detachment of Federal troops, the Twenty-seventh Kentucky, under Colonel Ward, sent there for the purpose of driv- ing out the guerrillas. When the boat landed a body of these guerrillas immediately made their- appearance on the top of the bank for the purpose of attempting the capture of the boat, the Federals being kept out of sight on purpose to deceive them. When they had nearly reached the boat our troops suddenly made their appearance in the engine-room and commenced an attack. The cowardly guer- rillas immediately commenced skedaddling in all directions, hotly pursued by the Union troops. F'our were captured, aid quite a num- ber wounded, among them a son of Walker Taylor. On the Wed- nesday following the guerrillas were reinforced, made a dash on the Federal pickets, and drove them in. Jan. 21, packets all engaged in taking Government troops up the river. 176 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Feb. 4, Amos Metcalf killed Chandler, a guerrilla, at Knotts- ville. Feb. 13, Colonel Birge, Federal, with a part of the Eight. eenth Kentucky Cavalry arrived, and the Twenty-seventh Ken- tucky left. Feb. 18, 100 men of the Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry arrived. Metcalf's men captured by Davidson and paroled. April 1, guerrillas killed a soldier. April 6, drafting in this district. 8, small-pox among the soldiers. April 9, a company of the One Hundred and Eighty-fifth Ohio arrived, under Captain Edmiston. April 10, news received of Lee's surrender at Ap- pomattox, Va.; bonfires and illuminations in the evening, be- cause "this cruel war was over," and not particularly because one party had conquered the other. April 15, draft suspended. May.-Confederates returning home nearly every day. 11, some guerrillas near town. May 28. Colonel Sam. Johnson and his sol- diers arrived. Sept. 6, a company of negro soldiers arrived. Sept. 25, negro soldiers left; no soldiers of any kind remaining. Oct. 31, six guerrillas reported at Yelvington. March 9, 1871, Congress passed "Mcreery's disability bill," which, among many from other States, relieved from political disabilities the following Daviess County citizens: Geo. W. Trip- lett, Charles S. Todd, Jr., John P. Thompson, J. 0. Shott, Thomas C. Jones, Graham Hughes, Baker Boyd, T. E. Crutcher, and William H. Clark. COPnA'.NY A, FIRST KENTUCKY CAVALRY. This company was formed of Daviess County men, and served in the Confederate army. Sept. 30, 1861, Dr. C. T. Noel was elected Captain; W. J. Taylor, First Lieutenant; T. C. Jones, Second Lieutenant; and Yoseph Yewell, Third Lieutenant. Dr. Noel was a prominent citizen. He was a candidate for the Legislature in 1861, but was defeated by Geo. H. Yeaman. During the war Mr. Taylor became Captain. The next morning after organization, this company reached Rough Creek, four miles above its mouth, where they feared their passage would be disputed by Federal troops, who occupied Cal- hoon and Hartford. But they succeeded in reaching Russellville, where they saw for the first time an organized Confederate force. Here, Oct. 5, they were mustered into the army for three years, or during the war. They were first ordered to Bowling Green, where General Buckner had concentrated the bulk of his army, and was fortifying his position and drilling his troops. Here they were joined to the First Kentucky Cavalry, under Colonel Bern Hardin 12 177 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Helm, who was afterward killed. The company was subjected to rigid military discipline, and during the ensuing winter several sickened and died-among them Ignatins McDaniel, Wm. Jones and Thomas Lackland. From Bowling Green they went to Glas- gow, where they spent their first Christmas in camp. Company A engaged in all the battles and hardships which the regiment suffered during the war, which were many and severe. Would that we had space to record them all here, as well as the names of those who fell on the battle-field and in camp, never again to appear alive in the presence of their families and friends. 'SUE MUNDAY." Marcus Jerome Clarke, alia8 " Sue Munday, " was a noted guer- rilla Captain daring the last civil war, and once appeared upon he streets of Owensboro, in female attire, with long hair, etc. He was a nephew of Beverly L. Clarke, a Kentucky statesman of Simp- son County. Sue Munday was a lively and mischievous guerrilla, although it is notknown that he committed any depredations in Daviess County. His headquarters were principally about Chaplintown and Bloom- field. He committed many acts of depredation and murder in various portions of the State. Mar. 12, 1865, he and Captain Billy Magruder and Henry Metcalfe, other notorious guerrillas, were capt- nred near Webster, Breckenridge County, by a company of Fed- erals, and taken to Louisville,fwhere Munday and Metcalfe were convicted of murder, and sentenced to be hung. Munday was ex- ecuted at the age of only twenty years. Metcalfe, through the inter- cession of his attorney, Colonel John I-I. McHenry, of Owensboro, had his sentence commutted toimprisonrnent for ive years in the State penitentiary. He was soon afterward released, and is now a respectable citizen of Ohio qpunty. Magruder had been danger- ously wounded Feb. 28, and, after riemnaining in a military hospital for some time, he was tried, found guilty of murder, andexecuted 178 CHAPTER VII. MATERIAL PROGRESS. The progress which a community makes in material resources and wealth cannot be exhibited in any way except by tabulated results, so that a fair comparison can be made. Hence this chap- ter is mostly statistical, and is designed rather for reference than bor continuous reading. The increase of population necessarily comes in this connection, so that one can see what a given number of people can accomplish from time to time,- under the varying circumstances. The census, therefore, naturally comes first, in the presentation of this subject. POPULATION OF DAVIESS COUNTY. 1820 ............ . ......... 3,876 1830 . . 5,209 1840: Whites.6,327 Slaves.......... 1960 Free colored......... 44 8,331 1850: Whites ........ 9.D,419 Slaves........ 2,889 Free colored........ 54 - 12,362 1860: Whites .......... .11,958 Slaves ...... ......... 3,515 Free colored .76 -- 15,549 1 870: Whites ......17,111 Free colored .......... 3,603 --20,714 1880: Whites ........... 22,008 Free colored .......... 4,528 --26,536 CENSUS OF 1880, IN DETAIL. White. Bl'es. !Males. iYems. Total. Lower Town.. . . . . ... 3,3011,3161 2,2212,3964,617 Upper Town ............................... 5,250 1,544 3,413 3,381 6,794 Yelvington ................................. 1,534 346 1,054 876 1,930 Knottsville ............................... 2,448 641 1,280 1,227 2,507 Boston.................................... 1,497115779 733 1,512 Ciirdsville..... ......... ..... 2,370 134 1,2671,237 2,504 Murray ... .. ... 1,618 3811 1,035 964 1,909 Vanover....... ............................ . 1,293 18; 679 632 1,311 Oakford..................................924 375 685 614 1,209 Masonville..................................808 129 436 451 937 Sorghotown.............................. 920 20 6 600 526 1,126 22,068 4,528 13,499 13,037 26,536 But the census of this year, published shortly afterward as " offi- cial," gave the following totals: (179) HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. No. OF PRECINCT. POP. 1. Lower Town,includ. Owensb'o 8,355 2. Upper Town, " " 3,698 S. Yelvington . . ........ 1,934 4. Knottsville.. . ......... 2,624 5. Boston.. .......... 1614 6. Murray . . ........ 2,041 7. Curdsville. . ........ 2,559 8. Vanover . ............. 1,418 9. Oakford. ........... 1.376 10. Masonville. .......... 949 11. Sorghotown . .......... 1,162 CITY AND VILLAGES. Owenaboro ......6,231 Yelvington........... 172 Knottsville........... 157 Whitesville ... ................... 309 Delaware............ .... .... 83 West Louisville....... 92 Masonville ...... ................. 41 Curdsville . ......... 197 Very little confidence, however, is placed in the foregoing returns. The Directory of 1882 contains 2,898 names for Owens- boro, which, multiplied by four' (the universal rule), gives 11,592 for this cite and its suburbs. Again, in the above table, Oakford is made to contain fifty per cent. more inhabitants than Masonville, which is certainly a great error. In 1873 Daviess County was the fifth in the State in point of population. AGRICULTURAL CENSUS. In 1850 there were 1,292 farms in the county and 1,631 dwell inogs. In 1846 the valuation of taxable property was 2,558,592; in 1870, 7,825,750. Number of acres of hand in 1870, 262,758, valued at 18.36 per acre. Value per acre in 1846, 4.20. CENSUS OF 1867. White males over 21 ............. 3,040 White children between 6 and 20.5,089 Value of taxable land ...... 4,586,285 Horses and mares ............... 5,584 Their value ............. 435,650 Mules ........ 1,011 Their value ............... 81,920 Cattle over 50 ................ 8,481 Their value ............... 60,346 Stores ........................... 117 1 Value of merchandise. .... 266,550 Hogs over six months old ...... 13,783 Pounds of tobacco, crop of 1867 ...........3,393,670 Tons of hay, crop of 1867 ........ 3,225 Bushels of corn, crop of 1867.. .855,780 Bushels of wheat, crop of 1867 . 48,545 Total value subject to taxa- tion .................. 7,779,735 During the year 202 sheep had been killed by dogs. At this time Daviess was the ninth county in the State in point of wealth. CENDUS OF 1868. Number. Acres of land............ 280,846 Town lots, about..................................... ..750 Horses and mares............ 5,4 Mules... ........................... 1,025 Cattle... 8,384 Stores ............. ..... 119 Carriages.................................................... Gold and silver plate........................................... Pianos...................................................... i Val ue 4,537,255 1,479,005 427,760 82,335 63,800 250,300 52,655 10,010 18,990 ISO HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. 181 Total revenue tax..................................................... 23,795 White males over 21 .......................... 3,617 Enrolled militia.2................................... 2,010 Children between 6 and 20................... . 5,005 Negroes................... ,41 4'4 Hogs over six months old............ . . . .. 13,525 Sheep killed by dogs.....................................................283 Pounds of tobacco .................................... ............. 2,802,850 Tons of hay......................... .................. 3,153 Bushels of corn ......... . ....................... .................... 860,875 Taxable property owned by negroes .37,110 CENSUS OF 1869. The principal variations from the previous year were as follows: Enrolled militia......................................................... 3,264 Number of hogs..................1..................... ..., 12,485 Number of blind persons.2 N um ber of du m b persons .................................................11 Sheep killed by dogs. ................... 37 Pounds of tobacco raised ..................... 6,298,850 Bushels of corn raised ................................................. 962,170 Bushels of wheat raised ........ . ...................................... 39,410 Negroes between 6 and 20 ... .704 Taxable property owned by negroes... 52,760 Jury fund... 3,686 Number of deeds recorded.. . 647 Other things generally were from five to fifteen per cent. greater, in keeping with the growth of the country. In 1870 there were 6,032 horses in the county, 858 mules, 7,890 cattle, and 11,236 hogs over six months old. This year there were also 1,386 farms and 125 productive establishments. 00 TOBACCO CROP. lbs. lbs. 1866. 5,400,950 1869................ 6,818,400 1867.........................2,802,850 11870 ...... ...............8,493,600 1868. ........6298,850 1871. ,653,555 CORN CROP. bushels. bushels. 1866.......................... 925,9351S69. .. 773,275 1867 .......................... 860,85 17.1,083,680 1868 .9....0....... 960 170 1871.1092,505 W HEAr CROP. bushels. bushels. 1866..... 36,605 1809............. 70,060 1867.W.......... ... ....... , 48,045 1870.......... 64,365 1868 .....9......... ..... .. 89,410 1871 .........3 1,693 HAY CROP. tons. tons. 1866 .. .1,972 1869 . 3,254 1867 ........................ ...3,153 1870....... ..................... 4,804 1868............................2,662 1871.............. 3,328 After giving the above figures, Judge Triplett adds: " Daviess 1HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. may be set down as the largest tobacco-growing county in the State. Our corn crop for 1870 was perhaps the largest ever grown in the county; but our people are far behind many counties in their hay crop." The great staples are corn and tobacco. About 1,500,000 bushels of corn would be considered a ftll crop for a good season. The largest crop of tobacco ever grown was raised in 1872, and mar- keted in 1873. It is known by tobacco men as the crop of 1873, and amounted to 12,087,000 pounds. The same year the corn crop was 1,300,000 bushels. In a fair average season the tobacco crop averages about ten pounds of tobacco to each bushel of corn. The land is peculiarly adapted to timothy, red clover, red top and orchard grass, and the ric hilly lands produce fine blue grass. In fact, blue grass seems to be spreading, or spontaneously growing over nearly every part of the county. Wheat, rye, oats and barley generally do well, the wheat crop occasionally averaging twenty bushels per acre, and not unfrequently an individual crop runs over thirtv bushels per acre. Potatoes and all vegetables of the climate are cultivated with success. About 900 pounds of tobacco and forty bushels of corn are fair average crops per acre. W. S. Stone once raised 123 bushels of corn per acre on a field of twelve acres, thirteen miles below Owensboro, on the Ohio River. The ground was accurately surveyed and the corn correctly measured. THE DAVIESS COUNTY AGRICULTURAL AND MECHANICi4 ASSOCIATION was first organized about 1850; had its annual fairs with niore or less success until about the beginning of the civil war, when it was neglected. After the war a new company was formed, with the same or a similar name, borrowed 35,000 and bought and fitted up grounds near the new cemetery. These grounds comprised about twenty-five acres, and were by nature possessed of a beautiful alternation of cleared land and forest. The people were energetic and took special pride in furnishing and ornamenting the place; several counties participated. At the first fair, in the fall of 1866, 5,000 to 6,000 people were present, at least four days out of the five. Many horses from other counties were on exhibition, as well as some fine cattle and sheep; but there were no hogs. On the first day there was a splendid dis- play of quilts, jeans, linseys and agricultural products. Also of garden and field products, needle-work, domestic manufactures, fine arts. etc., vying with any previous fair in the State. On the second day was the exhibition of cattle, sheep, mules, draft and 182 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COtUNTY. fine horses. On the third day fine horses constituted the principal show; in the afternoon lady equestrianship. An elegant 50 saddle was awarded the best lady rider. There were four contes- tants. In the gentlemen's equestrian ring there were sixteen entries. The programme of the fourth day was similar to that of the third. On the fifth and last day, gentlemen's riding and tournament of the Seven Knights. The usual dissents from the decisions of the judges were ex- pressed. The lady equestrianism was fine. The weather was beautiful throughont the time of the fair, and many visitors were present 'who had never before attended a fair. Says the Monitor: "There were so many agreeable incidents that we despair of giving our readers an idea of this p]easat 'reunion ' of friends and acquaintances, many of whom had not seen each other since they were separated by war's rude alarum. Not an event occurred to mar the harmony of the exhibition." Music was furnished by the Louisville Silver Band. Aristocratic hops were given at night. All was jollity, Fasting and mirth, light wantonness and laughter, Till life fled from us like a sweet dream. The proceeds of this fair yielded a handsome net profit to the society. Nov. 7, 1866, Clinton Griffith was elected President and Phil. T. Watkins, Secretary. The fair of 1867 was held the second week in October, and was even better, in nearly all respects, than that of the previous year. Receipts, 6,000. The Louisville Star Brass Band furnished the music. Among the little curiosities was a miniature steamboat, made from cornstalks by a colored boy fifteen years old, a servant of Captain Belt, of Livermore. The model and workmanship was perfect. The fair of Oct. 9-13, 1870, was also quite successful. The weather was damp on the first day, but fine during the rest of the term. A large number of visitors were present from abroad. The fair of Oct. 8-12, 1872, was another success, the weather being fine. The proceeds were sufficient to pay all expenses, be- sides interest on the debt and a surplus. Many visitors were here from abroad. Dr. W. S. Woolfolk, President. The other fairs, not mentioned above, were generally not so well patronized, and the expenses on the whole were rather greater than the receipts, so that, by the year 1874, the fair grounds were sold, to satisfy a claim of 8,000. A third company was then formed, called 183 184 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. THE DAVIESS COUNTY FAIR COMPANY. This was a joint stock association, issning seventy-five shares, at 100 each, which were readily taken. May 2, this year, the com- pany elected George W. Leet, President; Dr. C. H. Todd, Vice- President; Ed. T. Moorman, Secretary; P. T. Watkins, Treasurer, and a Board of Directors. The limit of membership was fixed at 100. Eighty-two had enrolled their names, most of whom had also paid in twenty-five per cent. of their subscription. A constitution and by-laws were adopted. Their first fair, Oct. 6-10, 1874, was well patronized. The ladies especially made their respective departments a great success. The fair of 1877, the secor4 week of October, was the largest ever held on the grounds, and the exhibition was better in all re- spects. The fair of 1S78, the first week in October, was favored with a finer exhibition of stock than had ever before been shown in the Green River region. Pecuniarily this fair was a satisfactory one. Of the fair of 1880, the first day was beautiful; but the weather the other four days waas generally so unfavorable that the receipts fell short of what were anticipated. Had the weather remained good, the company would probably have cleared about 2,000. The fair of Oct. 5-8, 1881, was largely attended. The amphi- theater, which holds 10,000 people, was, on the principal day, crowded to its utmost. The hosre-racing on this occasion was very exciting. The whole week passed off pleasantly and profitably. The fair of 1882 was a grand success. On the last day the re- ceipts were larger than ever before in the history of the company. DAYIESS COUNTY FARMERSs CLUB. At a meeting of the farmers of this county, at the court-house April 10, 1869, for the purpose of organizing a farmers' club, Dr. J. Q. A. Stewart was called to the chair, and H. P. Tompkins elected secretary. A committee of five was appointed to draft suitable resolutions and provide for a permanent organization. and report at the next meeting, on the 24th. The appointed day arrived, and the com mittee made their report. A constitution and by-laws were adopted. The object of the asso- ciation was declared to be " to advance the general interest of agri- culture in this portion of Kentucky; to spread intelligence of the markets for stock and other farm products, and by mutual consul- BISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. tation protect their interest against undue advantage being taken of them; to bring together the experience as to the best method of cultivating the various crops; of breeding and raising stock; of the various descriptions of the best farming implements; and em- bracing also the interests of horticulture, fruit-raising, the dairy, etc. " For the ensuing year John H. McFarland was unanimously elected President; J. Q. A. Stewart, Vice-President; H. P. Tomp- kins, Secretary; A. C. Sutherland, Corresponding Secretary, and Camden Riley, Treasurer. The regular meetings of the club were to be at the court-house, on the last Saturday of each month, at 1 P. xr. The hour arrived for the first meeting under the permanent organization, and the club met. The most important business transacted was unani- mously to adopt a resolution recommending the " Farmers' Home Journal, " published at Lexington, Ky. At the next meeting, June 26, the attendance was slim, owing to the busy season among farmers. An exciting disetssion was had, however, over a resolution for conferring with parties in the North- ern States with reference to the labor system. The resolution was laid on the table. The cultivation of Indian corn was chosen for discussion at the next meeting. Having no further accounts of the meetings of this club, we presume that its death took place soon after the above date, and that there were not many friends present when it died! DAVIESS COUNTY SORGHO SUGAR COMPANY. In the winter of 1868-'9 a company was formed with the above name, for the purpose of manufacturing sugar from sorgho; and on Jan. 20, 1869, a committee, consisting of Dr. J. Q. A. Stewart, J. Balee and E. Guthrie, reported that they had seen very good sugar made from the juice of the sorgho cane, and that its manu- facture was practicable; but from some cause the enterprise was never pushed on to success. Since the modern process for whiten- ing cane sugar and for the manufacture of glucose have been brought to such perfection, sorgho (or sorghtum) manufacture can not competewith them. IMPORTATION OF FOREIGN LABOR. Jan. 1, 1863, on the emancipation of the slaves of the seceding States, wages for manual labor went up to an intolerable height. 185 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Negro farm hands demanded 200 to 250 a year, and cooks 25 to 125. At the close of the war, when greenbacks were more plentiful than specie, and the negroes about all free, the prices of labor rose to an alarming extent. An effort was therefore made by several- philanthropic citizens, foremost of whom was C. R. Milne, to induce immigrants from Scotland. Su bscriptions were raised, and the assistance of Henderson County promised, with a view of sending over an agent to Scotland to encourage immigra- tion to Kentucky. Mr. Milne promised to give his time if the citizens would bear his expenses for a trip to the old country for this purpose; but the whole project was finally dropped, through sheer neglect, before any immigration was effected. GREEN RIVER NAVIGATION. The first act for improving the navigation of Green River was passed Feb. 16. 1808. It laid upon the several County Courts, through or by which the navigable portion of Green River passed the responsibility of clearing out that stream and keeping it in navigable condition, requiring overseers annually, in July, August and September, to " work it with hands from the neighborhood, namely, to remove all fish-pots, all dams not erected under authority of the Legislature, and all logs; to cut and clear away all project- ing timber; to shrub all points of islands, and to remove any other ohstructions in the channel. Hands were " exonerated by the pay- ment of seventy-five cents per day." An amendatory act Jan. 10, 1811, declared the navigable port of the river to be that below the mouth of Knob Lick Creek, in Casey County, which a year later was changed to that below the Adair County line. The navigation of Green and Barren rivers was the first to seriously engage the attention of the State. In 1833, 526 was expended upon it in surveys; in 1834, 15,272 was expended for engineering and works npon the locks; and in 1835, 40,033-all this before any expenditures were incurred upon other rivers. The total estimated cost, in 1834, of four locks and dams in Green River and one in Barren River, was 290,988, or within a fraction of 862 per- mile. This system-n of improvement embraced 180 miles in Green and Barren rivers connectedly, thirty miles' in Green River above the mouth of Barren, thirty in Muddy River, nine in Pond River, and nineteen in Rough Creek-268 miles in all. A lock in Rough Creek, to cost 14,891, would extend the navigation up to Hartford, Ohio County, a little over twenty-eight 186 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. miles from its month; and a lock in Pond River, to cost 15,340 would extend its navigation to thirty miles. The total amount paid by the State for these works up to Nov. 20, 1837. was 243,194, while less than one third this amount was paid on all the other rivers together. The total amountt expended to complete the permanent navigation up to Bowlineg Green, requiring four locks in Green and one in Barren river, was 859,126.79, which included 34,055 for hydraulic lime. In thirteen out of twenty-three years, 1843-'65, small dividends were realized by the State from this line of navigation-from 32 in 1859 to 5,610 in 1S55; but more than these sumns were paid back for repairs in other years, namely, 4,811.0T-the gross ex- penditures being 269,813.663, and the gross receipts, 265,002.59. The cost of the improvements turned out to be nearly five times the estimate. Lock and darn No. 2 was let in January, 1834, and its gates opened Decenmber, 1837. The rest were completed by 1842. The present GREEN AND BARREN RIVER NA VIGATION COMPANY was organized about 186S. consisting of John Robinson, Win. If. Payne, 0. P. Johnson, D. R. Haggard, F. M. Allison, A. C. Turner, H. C. Murray, John V. Sproule, E. 13. Seeley, W. S. Vannmeter. C. J. Vanmeter, Win. Brown, and M. D. Hay. A thirty-year charter was granted this comnpany by the Legislature, on condition that they at the expiration of their charter wvould turn over the river to the State in as -good condition as they found it. The comrnany represented to the Legislature that the river was an expense to the State, and thus secured the grant of adroitly worded franchises. The river actuallv had always yielded a net revenue to the State, but there was an apparent loss during the war, owing to an unawarded claim; and this fact was " made the most of" by the raiders, who obtained their deceptive charter and proceeded to carry out a perfect monopoly of Green River navigation. When this chicanery was discovered about ten years afterward, an attempt was made in the Legislature to revoke the charter, but failed. A renewed attempt was nlade at the next session, 1879-'80 which was sustained by both branches of the Legislature. The company, however, refused to give possession of the rivers, and the State brought suit in the Franklin Circuit Court for recovery, and obtained a decision in its favor; but the case was referred to 18T HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. the Court of Appeals, which reversed this decision, holding that the Legislature could not revoke the charter. In order to manipulate the court, the company succeeded in getting a man placed upon the judicial bench who had been an attorney for them in all their lawsuits. The corporators were men of wealth and influence. In the Legislature of 1881-'2, another effort was made to remedy the evil, in a manner quite different from the preceding, but before the bill reached the House the Legislature adjourned; and thus the matter stands at the present writing (February, 1883). The present corporators are: C. G. Smallhouse, E. B. Seeley, John A. Robinson, Wm. H. Payne, John V. Sproule and W. S. and C. J. Vanlneter. Dr. S. W. Combs, a member of the com- pany, died last fall. TIHE DAVIESS COUNTY GRAVEL ROAD COMPANIES. About 1855 a stock company was organized to build a plank road toward Livermore; but after planking five miles, they com- pleted their work as a gravel road company, placing about nine inches of gravel on the trace to a distance of twelve miles from Owensboro. This has proved to be a great improvement, well repaying the cost. The present company was organized in the spring of 18'82, in- corporated as a stock company, to gravel all the eastern roads in the vicinity of Owensboro for a distance of five miles out. They fixed the shares at 50, of whichl 350 were taken. They have supplied three miles of road with gravel, and their enterprise promises to pay liberal dividends, from receipts at the toll gate. J. W. M. Field is the President and Hugh A. Williams, Secretary. Board of Directors-M. V. Monarch, J. W. M. Field, Allan Reid, J. H. Bell and G. W. Williams. TELEGRAPH. _Louisville and: Owensboro Telegraph Company.-May 4, 1866, at a meeting held in this city, 50 was ordered to constitute a share, and each share one vote. B. Bransford was elected Presi- dent, C. B. Hicks, Secretary, and W. B. Tyler, Treasurer. A board of directors was also elected. N. M. Booth was chosen Superin- tendent of the line. The president and directors were given full power to contract for the construction of the line, call a meeting of the stockholders in certain cases,- etc., complete control of the line being placed in their hands. 188 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. This company commenced building their line in April, 1866, and completed it the next year-the first telegraph line ever built in Daviess County. This telegraph was operated until the winter of 1873-'4, when it was abandoned. Owensboro Evansville Telegraph Company was organized in September, 1875, as a stock association, with a capital of 2,500, shares at 50. James Weir was elected President and John W. Porter, Secretary, Treasurer and Superintendent. The stock was immediately taken, and the line at once put up, and business com- menced. In the summer of 1876 theyventered into a contract with the Western Union Telegraph Company, since which time they have co-operated. Present officers: S. D. Kennady, President; John W. Porter, same offices as at the first. It will be inferred from the foregoing facts that Mr. Porter is the prime mover and sup- porter of the present telegraph facilities which Owensboro enjoys. RAILROADS. In the present age railroads are the main factors of cities and towns, and a general prosperity itself. Woe unto that town or community that is left out in the cold by the contests of money kings and railroad giants! In this respect Daviess County has been rather unfortunate, not having a railroad until 1870, and but a small piece of one at that. It seems, however, to be not the fault of the people here, but the natural result of stock manipulations among lovers of money, blind often to their own pecuniary interests. In 1826 a railway was built by Robert Triplett, three quarters of a mile in length, from the Bon Harbor Hills to the Ohio River,- the first built in Kentucky and probably the first in the West. It was probably operated by inule-power. A railroad was proposed from Owensboro to Calhoon as early as 1848, and stock was taken in it by a number of individuals; but a proposition for aid or right of way being submitted to the people, it was voted down by a heavy majority; and thus ended railroad scheming in this county for many years. OWENSBORO NASHVILLE RAILROAD. Jan. 10, 1866, the Owensboro Monitor formally opened out in favor of a railroad south to Calhoon, as a means not only of build- ing lip Owensboro, but of even keeping it up to the level it had attained among sister towns. Two weeks afterward it still further 189 1HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. urged the advantages of a railroad, both to the company building it and to Owensboro and the country around generally. In subse- quent issues correspondents supported the editor in his earnest appeals. Nov. 9 following a meeting of the citizens of Owensboro was held, when Dr. W. D. Stirman was chosen Chairman and G. W. Ray, Secretary. A committee was appointed to secure a revision, by the Legislature, of the old charter of the Russellville Owens- boro Company, approved March 2, 1860, and another committee was appointed to ask aid from the city of Owensboro, through the Council. Dec. 3, at a meeting of the citizens of Muhlenburg County at Greenville, a request was published for a general meeting of parties all along the line to take place at Greenville; and ac- cordingly about seventy-five representative citizens were appointed bv Daviess County mass-meeting at Owensboro Dec. 15, to attend in a body the general convention at Greenville, to devise means and awaken a common interest for an early completion of the rail- road. The delegation attended, and reported favorable progress. The people of McLean and Muhlenburg counties wanted to trade with Owensboro, and therefore were largely interested in the road. Not only farmi produce, stock and lumber, but also coal in vast quantities were to be shipped. During the spring of 1867 addresses were delivered to the people of the county by Messrs. McHenry, Hardin, Arch and Isaac Sutherland, Triplett, Sweeney, Weissinger, Taylor, Jones, Crav- croft, Sims and Elliott, urging the people to vote for the county taking 250,000 stock in the railroad, which they did April 15, giving 437 majority in the county, and 921 in Owensboro, for the stock. A few days afterward the commissioners appointed a board of canvassers for every precinct to seeLre subscription of stock, which was taken in 25 shares. The commissioners for Daviess County were Dr. W. A. Hickman, T. B. Hardin, H. W. Scott, Geo. W. Swocpe and Dr. W. D. Stirman. In Septeinber Dr. Hick- man was elected President, A. L. Ashby, Secretary, and T. S. An- derson, Treasurer, and every department of the business set in operation. Meanwhile Hon. T. C. MIcCreery and Camden Riley opposed the enterprise as proposed, and in October, 1867, the County Cront declined also to lend its aid. But the friends of the road wcn' On with the work. Dee. 30 a mass meeting of the citizens of Owensboro adopted 190 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. resolutions favoring the bill pending before the Legislature pro- viding for State aid to railroads. Jan. 18, 1868, S. D. Kennady and John T. Brooks reported the results of a reconnoissance alone the proposed route of the road, which were very encouraging to the enterprise. In February the directory employed N. M. Lloyd as their chief engineer. May 6, James Weir was elected President; A. L. Ashby, Secretary Eind ol- lectpr; W. B. Tyler; Treasurer. The other directors were S. M. Wing, C. Riley, Benj. Bransford, S. D. Kennady, F. L. Hall, W. A. Hickman and Clinton Griffith. S. Gordon was employed as survevor. Stockholders were at this time slow in paying their assessments (which were generally five per cent.), and much ex- 11ortation was resorted to by the officers and friends of the enter- prise. June 17, 1868, Chief Engineer Lloyd reported in detail the estimated cost of the two proposed routes to Russellville, making that via Calhoon 1,059,554, and that via Livermore 979,872; distance via Calhoon, 47.36 miles. and via Livermore, 41.81 miles; the cost through Daviess County, bythe first named route, 188,196; by the other, 232,956. Sept. 8, the directors accepted the Livermore route, as the people on that line, especially of Livermore Precinct, paid more oil the stock. By November a suf- ficient amount cf stock had been paid in to insure the completion of the road to Greenville. Feb. 27, Loran County voted 500,000 for the road, and other friends proposed to add 100,000 more. At this time all the people along the route were considerably in- terested, expecting the road to be built as far at least as Bowling Green. By the last of April 1,425,485 had been subscribed, but some of this was conditional; and the reason that grading had not commenced long before was, the directory felt in -honor bound to wait a reasonable length of time for the people to saw how much they would give for the different routes, so that the tine could be precisely located, the highest bidders to win. On the third of May, 1869, however, grading commenced on the Livermore route. In the Monitor of June 23, 1869, appeared a very careful, de- tailed statement of the resources of this county, and of the matur- ity of the bonds of 250,000 voted, interest, etc., by which any one could foresee to the end all the pecuniary responsibilities of the enterprise. During the summer and fall of 1869 and the winter and spring following, the work of construction went steadily on; and in April, 191 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. 1870, President Weir went East and purchased iron, engines and rolling stock. Track-laying commenced in July following. In the Mlonitor of June 8, 1870, Mr. Weir published a full state- ment of the condition of the road and of the history of the various contracts. At this time the line had not been located south of Green River, owing to the unsettled condition of some of the subscriptions along the route. July 14, 1870, the fine locomotive " Jo Daveiss, " was landed' at the Owensboro wharf. It was built at the Baldwin works, Phila- delphia, at a r_ st of 11,325, and weighed 49,000 pounds. On its being landed here a large assembly of the citizens gathered at the wharf to welcome the friendly stranger. On this day other equip- ments for the roadarrived. During this season, the summer of 1870, the railroad from Rockport to Cincinnati was under good lieadwaay in construction. Oct. 5, 1870, the directors located the line of the road south of Green RiMer, by way of South Carrollton. Feb. 15. 1871, a fine passenger coach, built at Jeffersonville, reached Owensboro, to be placed at once on the road. March 2, the first excursion was given, which carried the passengers over fourteen miles of road, Mr. Ashburn being the engineer. At this time track-laying was progressing at the rate of half a mile a day. April 14, an excursion of about 600 ladies and gentlemen was made to Livermore-this constituting the formal opening of the road for business to that point. The excursion was a grand and joyful pic- nic, unmarred by accident. In October, 1871, President Weir contracted for the graduation of the entire route through Logan County, from the Muhlenburg County line to the Tennessee State line-a distance of thirty miles. In the Mon0itor of Feb. 7, 1872, an anonymous correspondent an- niounced as news that the Owensboro Russellville Railroad was but a link in one of the most important north and south lines of railroad in the United States-a line fionm Chicago to the Gulf of Mexico, through the best part of the country. The road was completed and put in operation under the super vision of the following efficient Board of Directors: James Weir, President; R. S. Bevier, Vice-President; Robert Browder, George R. Bibb, S. D. Kennady, J. W. Belt, D. M. Griffith and Canmden Riley. 192 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. July 31, 1872, President Weir published to the stockholders the condition and prospects of the road. He had employed a steamer to run in the pool oln Green River, between the town of Calhoon and the mouth of Mud River, a distance of forty-seven miles; but the boat could not be retained. The business of the road up to this date had been very good, even exceedingc the anticipations of the board. Tile road was now running to Stroud City, making connection with the ELizabethtown Paducah Railroad. Up to Oct. 1, 1872, there had been expended in the construction of the 0. 11. Road, 1,406,118. 'Tile money market being somewhat stringentin this country, the bonds were sent to Europe. In the Monitor of Jan. 29, 1873, President Weir puiblished again the condition of the railroad, showing that all wvent on economi- cally, and satisfactorily to all who knew the facts, notwitlhstand- ing the carping criticisms of sundry anonymous. correspondents of the press. From Owvensboro to Livermore the road and its equip- ments, including machine-shops, depots and station-lhouse8, had cost 355,422.75; iron bridge over Green River, 106,827.62; from Livermore to the junction with the E. P. Road, fifteen miles, 399,084.87; from the last point to the northern line of Logan County, eighteen miles, 238,185.87; from there to the Tennessee State line, thirty-two miles, 344,982.54. From thej unction to the State line the road was not completed; and it was estimated that 90,000 more would prepare it for track-laying. About these times (1873) the well-remnembered stringency of business set in, and all railroad construction throughout the United States ceased. Scarcely anything, therefore, was done on this road, much less on any other route, until 1878, when another movement was inaugurated for completing this road to Russell- ville. The road had already, during the seven years of its exist- ence, reduced freights from Louisville to about two thirds or less, and during that time Owensboro had about doubled in population and wealth. These facts served as a foundation for the propriety of voting an additional tax to finish the road, but of course this movement met with some opposition. The proposition, however, to vote anl additional tax of 50,000 upon the city of Owensboro, was carried on June 1, 1878. by 756 votes, this number being ninety-three more than the requisite majority of the qualified voters. During the summer the directory concluded to issue 350,000 twenty-year six per cent. bonds, with a mortgage on the entire 13 193 194 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. railroad, and guarantee the completion of the road to Adairville, in Lcgan County, in twelve months, if the city, or if Logan and Daviess, would take 150,000 of the bonds bearing SiX per cent., payable semi-annually after the first twelve months. Thus they would release Owensboro of the subscription voted June 1 pre- viouslv. Bat corrapt management seemed to set in about this time, and the people lost confidence in the directory. The way was fast being paved for selling out the road to Louisville parties. The trains were stopped during the winter of 1878-'9. May 13, 1879, this road was sold to the Nashville, Chattanooga St. Louis Railway Company, by T. S. Anderson, and new life was infused into the enterprise, as the new company signified their intention to run a line to Vincennes, and- thus complete a trunk line to Chicago. About the middle of Julv trains were again started under the einanagement of Vice-President Anderson; E. Cnlverhouse, Superintendent. The track was put in good condi- tion during August and September. But in a few short weeks, namely, in January following, the N., C. . St. L. road fell into the hands of the Louisville Nashville Railway Company, who were interested in building up Lsuisville at the expense of both Owensboro and CilicAo. This cotp d'etat was acaoinplished by the intricate manipulations of' stock in New York. A full account is given in the Osvensboro Xes'sengei' rand Examiner of Jan. 23, 1880. Colonel E. W. Cole, of Nashville, and President of the N.. C. St. L. R. R. Co., fought bravely against the transfer, but was finally defeated. In the spring of 1880 the "Evansville, Owensboro Nashville Railroad Company " went into bankruptcy: J. Z. Moore, of Owensboro. Register. Governor Porter succeeded Colonel Cole as President of the Nashville, Chattanooga St. Lonis Railroad, and hopes still lingered in the hearts. of the people along the line of the 0. N. Road that the track would soon be completed, at least to Nashville, or Russellville; but these hopes were "deferred," until the public "heart was made sick," and tired out with thoughbts of suspense concerning the matter. Suspense has now grown into a dead negation, with the Owensboro Nashville Railroad ending at Ricedale, forty-four miles from the former city. During the vear 1881 it was decided by the courts that Owens- boro's over issue of bonds was illegal. This municipality had issued bsnds to the amount of 320,000 to secure the 250,000 cash au- thorized . HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. The late Railroad Commission recently levied a tax upin this road, and the company refused to pay it, on the ground that the road was unfinished, while the franchise was it should remain un- taxed until "finished." The State, therefore, sued the company in the Franklin Circuit Court, and obtained a verdict in its favor; but the company has taken the case to the Court of Appeals. The Legislature of 1881-'2 passed a bill requiring the L. N. Co. to complete the 0. N. Road to Nashville within two years or forfeit their charter. The company refused to give guaranties that they would complete the track in that time; and the prospect now is that the road will have to be sold again, and a new com- mencement made. Colonel R. S. Bevier, formerly of iRussellville, but now of Owens- boro, has been a zealous and hard-working friend of this road from the commencement, and is now the efficient and popular President of the Company. PROPOSED RAILROADS. As yet there is but one railroad in Daviess County, but of course several others have been proposed, notably the route from Louis- ville direct to Owensboro along the south side of' the Ohio River, which has been called by various names; as, +he Louisville, Clover- port Western Railway; Louisville, St. Louis Texas, etc. In 1881 a narrow-gauge track was projected on this route, and sub- scription books opened for its construction. In Owensboro Messrs. Griffith, Bransford and Powers had charge of such books, for raising 25,000; but the people along the line did not rally to its support as zealously as was hoped. At the present time-the win ter of 1882-'3-a renewed effort is being made to interest the people in a standard gauge road on this route. In April, 1882, a meeting of the directors was held in Owens- boro, which determined to push the survey of the route to a point opposite Shawneetown, Ill., and to facilitate the survey and provide for the maps and profiles and necessary expenses; subscriptions to the stock were ordered to be opened at once at Henderson, Union- town, Morganfield, Owensboro, and along the rest of the proposed route, five per cent. of this subscription to be payable on demand after ten days, and the remainder upon the completion of the road. As to the location of the line between Cloverport and Owensboro, there were (and are still, February, 1883) two routes of equal ad vantages-one by Pellville and Knottsville, and the other along 195 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. the river. The first mentioned is the shorter route by seven miles, but the location of the line will probably be made dependent upon the liberality of the citizens along the respective routes. Since the year 1872 the question of building a track from Owensboro to Vincennes has been considerably agitated, James C. Rudd, of this city, taking a leading part. In 1873 a company was organized, and the advantages of such a road set forth, by articles in the newspapers, accompanied with maps, etc., showing the mutual benefit to Owensboro and Chicago that would certainly acerue. Tobacco, whisky, coal, etc., would by it find an outlet to foreign ports by way of the lakes; and even Chicago itself would be a considerable consumer of Daviess County produce. It is, indeed, a much needed road, but there is a "hitch" somewhere, perhaps made by rival cities. A line has been talked of running from Richmond, Va., through Owensboro to Cairo, Ill.; also, from Owensboro to Rockport. In 1880 the latter was a part of the line called the "Owensboro, Rockport Seymour Railroad," which was designed to run on to Bellefontaine, 0. Indeed, a great deal was done toward commenc- ing work, but local aid was not snfficiently forthcoming. For further industrial enterprise, see the chapter on Owensboro and the several precinct histories. 196 CHAPTER VIII. TIHE PRESS. DEFUNCT NEWSPAPERS. Owensboro Bulletin.-The first newspaper in Daviess County was the Owensboro Bulletin, started in 1844 as a Henry Clay Wlhig paper, by Thornton C. Pattee, and continued for several years. Owensboro Gazette -The next was the Owensboro Gazette, a Democratic orgari, established about April 10, 1852, by George G. Vest, from Frankfort, Ky., now United States Senator from Missouri, and Robert S. Triplett, of Owensboro, still a well-known business man of this place. Mr. Vest brought with him from Frankfort a good printer named Joseph H. Mayhall, and their paper was therefore a very fine-looking sheet. The first year it had an average of about ninety advertisements in it. from the busi- ness men of Owensboro,-among them Tyler Mayo, Moorman Bros., Allen Daveiss, W. H. Kerney Co., J. Hiyman . Co., Adams Shmutte, Wing Weir, Megill Bro., and Simn- mons Millett. The proposed Henderson Nashville Railroad was much talked of then, and was therefore a prominent topic in its columns. Within a year after its commencement Mr. Vest sold the paper to Mr. Mayliall, who employed Alfred B. Johnson as editor. This man was a brother of Hon. James L. Johnson, and died in Owensboro, before the war. In the fall of 1854 Mr. Mayhall was thrown out of a buggy and killed, and his widow continued thle paper for a short time and sold it to a Mr. Hawkins; hut it prob- ably did not survive long. .Yational American, The Shield, and Ford's Southern Shield.- During the Know-Nothing excitement of 18,56 the National Ameri- can was started in Owensloro by Joshua G. Ford, proprietor, and George H. Yeamain, editor. The first number was dated Aug. 6, 1856. A. G. Botts succeeded Mr. Yeaman as editor, and Colonel John H. McHenry was the next, in 185728; and, about this time, Mr. Ford changed the name to The Shield, and soon after the out- break of the war to lord's Southern Shield, which name it (197) HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. sustained until its discontinuance in 1875. For a year or so, how- ever, during the war, it was located at Hartford, Ky. "I Colon el" Joshua G. lord was born, it is said, in Caldwell County, Ky., about 1831. When twelve years old he came to Owensboro on foot and learned the printer's art in the office of the Bulletin. In 1858 he married Miss Eliza Jinbler. June 10, 1862, he was arrested by order of General Boyle, AdjutAnt.General of Kentucky, and conveyed to Louisville, but was shortly afterward released. In 1875 he was elected to the Legislature and his paper discontinued. A few months after ilis termn expired he removed, withrthe materials of his office, to Lacon, Ill., where he edited the .Mal'Shall County Demnocrat a number of years. He is now edit- ing the Sauk County Democrat, in Baraboo County, Wis., which county, since his arrival there, has changed from Republican to Democratic, apparently by his influence. A. G. Bott8 was County Judge 1858-'66. Ile died in this county about twelve years ago. For biographical sketches of Messrs. Yeaman and McHenry see chapter entitled " Sketches of Public Men. " Owensboro Democrat.-Tbis paper was started a short time before the war, by Isaac P. Washburn, an illiterate man. It did not long survive the commencement of the war. Otwensboro Times.-This paper, started early in 1882, by T. P. Getz Co., is already discontinued. Owenslrom NewS.-This was an eight-column folio, commenced in 1881 by Thomas Collins, as a Republican local paper; but in a few months it died and the office material was mostly sold to the Post. Mr. Collins next endeavored to establish a paper at Mt. Vernon, Imd., but failed. Tie Owpwsboro Mon itoi was started in 1862 bya Henry MI.Wood- ruff, a strong Union man, who spoke out boldly in the face of wvar. The size of the paper at first was a twenty-inch six-column folio, and the first number is dated Aug. 13, 1862. In the last week ot May, 1864, Thomas S. Pettit became a part owner,and changed the political tone of the paper, and spoke (out as boldly against Lincoln's administration as his predecessor did against secession, although for the Union. Soon afterward Mr. Woodruff retired from the paper altogether. In the autumni of this year Mr. Pettit was taken away by military authority, as more fully described a little further on, and the paper was discontinued for about six months, except a few weeks, when it was run by Rev. Richard C. 198 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Gardner, a Methodist Chaplain of the Twenty-seventh Kentucky Infantry, who had for his aid a few soldiers who could set type. During these changes considerable damage was done to the material of the office. The following May, Mr. Pettit returned from " Dixie Land " and resumed his old position, bought new press and type, and battled away on the same old principles for which lie was banished, and increased the circulation to more than 2,000 within a year. In the simumer of 1869 he purchased a power press. The local department of the paper he always kept open to all parties, and the news was given without partisan bias. A. L. Ashby, from Mt. Sterling, Ky., was admitted as associate editor from May 27, 1868, to Aug. 7, 1872. He was afterward Secretary of the Owensboro Nashville Railroad Company, and is now living at Louisville. ITe has accumulated considerable proip- erty. July 21, 1869, the Jlfonitor was enlarged to eight twenty- six inch columns to the page. In 1874 Mr. Pettit sold the Monitor to Robert Campbell, a native of Texas, who was educated at Eaton Rouge, La., and served in Hood's Texas Brigade during the war. Ile was admitted to the bar in Texas, but in 1871, at the age of twenty-six, he coinl- menced journalism in Mississippi. The Jfonitor was suspended about the 1st of March, 1877, and the material of the office sold afterward to J. A. Munday, who started the Messenger the following August. eIenry B. TFoodruf, proprietor and editor of the Oweusboro AMonitor during the first years of the war, was a man of fair abil- ity and of zealous Union- sentiments. I-Ie came to Owensboro as a school-teacher, and taught school a number of terms. He mar- ried Miss Sallie Elam, a daughter of' Mrs. John S. McFarland. He left Owensboro in 1863. when he sold out the Jfonwitor. being appointed by Governor B3ramlette tobacco inspector in Louisville. He now has charge of the railroad station at Anchorage, on the Louisville Frankfort Railroad. Thtomas S. Pettit was born in Frankfort, Ky., Dec. 21, 1843, the son of Franklin Duane and Elizabeth (Zook) Pettit; father a native of Virginia and mother of Kentucky. He attended Georgetown College, and before he was grown -up learned the printer's art, which came natural and easy to him, and he became an adept. In 1864 he came to Owensboro and purchased the Monitor of Mr. Woodruff, and began the publication of a lively local paper, ad- 199 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. vocating Democratic principles. Unlike his predecessor, lhe freely criticised the acts of the Republican party and their conduct of the war, and consequently in a few months (Nov. 17, 1864) he was arrested by order of General Stephen G. Burbridge, imprisoned and banished south, under the general charge of being "I notoriously disloyal." He was hurried away, and was sent under an escort to Memphis, Tenn., where lie was transferred across the lines within the Confederacy, in whose territory he traveled until the following May, when lie returned and resumed the publication of the Moni- tor, as already noted. He was the first to establish a successful, paying paper in Owensboro, which he did before he was twenty- five years of age; and he was the first to bring Gordon and power presses to Owensboro. In this paper he published, in several successive numbers, his "Trip to Dixie," giving his experiences during the whole of the " round trip." These exciting annals helped the circulation of his paper to a wonderful degree, as al- ready mentioned. In the South he underwent the many hard- ships and privations incident to a common soldier. Subsequently he was elected Assistant Clerk of the House of Representatives of the State Legislature, which position he held for six years, when he was appointed Private Secretary to James B. IMcCreary. This position he afterward resigned, to accept the situation of Reading Clerk of the House of Representatives at Washington, D. C., for which duty lie has extraordinarily good voice and articulation. On the death of Ilon. John S. McFarland, in 1869, and through the influence and personal popularity of Senator T. C. McCreery, he was appointed by President Johnson Assessor of this Internal Revenue District, the duties of which position he filled with conscientious fidelity to the close of the term. Mr. Pettit has ever been recognized as a true Democrat. He has attended a number of State conventions of his party, and at, every one of thieni he was elected secretary; and at the last National convention, which nominated Hancock and Hendricks, he was one of the secretaries. I-e is still active in the political field. Last fall- (1882) he was a candidate for Congress against James B. Clay, of Henderson, but, after an exciting race, lhe was defeated in the pivotal county of Union, by less than 150 votes. With all this political work Mr. Pettit has also engaged heavily in industrial pursuits. (See account of Marble Pettit's stave factory and lumber mills in the History of Murray Precinct.) He 200 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. has been active in many local and philanthropic enterprises too numerous to mention here. lie is a Freemason of high degree. Within four years after he entered the State Grand Lodge hle was elected Past Grand Master, a distinction never before accorded to a member so young in that body. In December, 1870, he married Miss Margaret Blair, a native of this county, and a daughter of James Harvey Blair, formerly a merchant of Owensboro. Their only child is named Harvey Blair Pettit. LIVING NEWSPAPERS. TSe Mlessenger and Exarniner.-This is a combination of the Messenger and the Owensboro Examiner. Owensboro Examiner.-This was started Jan. 1, 1875, and con- ducted five years by L. Lumpkini, sole editor and proprietor. It was a quarto of six columns to the page. Democratic. In 1880 it was consolidated with the .Messenger. Lee Limpkin was born in King William County, Va., in 1833. He lived there until the last war, in which he served, on the Confederate side, throughout the great struggle. He then came to Owensboro and entered into partnership with W. T. Courtney as a drrggist. In 1866 he married Miss Florence Coffey. In 1868 he opened a book store, whichi he conducted successfully until he sold out to the Aessenger in 1880, along with the Examiner. He is now a member of the firm of W. J. L. Lumpkin, merchant millers at the north end of Crittenden street. The Messenger.-Aug. 7, 1877, was the date of the first num- ber of this paper, an eight-columiln folio, started by J. A. Munday, who, for the purpose, had bought the material of the old Monitor office, as before mentioned. C. W. Bransford was admitted' as partner in 1878. In March, 1880, these gentlemen bought out the Exaniner, consolidating it with the Messenger, still retaining Mr. Lumpkin, the proprietor of the former, as business manager. The latter, however, soon left to carry on a flouring mill. Tie Mlessen- ger and Examiner has since been issued both as a weekly and a semi-weekly. The semi-weekly was commenced as a seven-column folio, and in 1882 enlarged to an eight-column. In the spring of 1881 Mr. Bransford purchased Mr. Munday's interest, and was alone until October, when he admitted to partnership Mr. Wrey Woodson. The former is senior and the latter junior editor. This is a model local paper in respect to typography, make-tup, quality of paper, and more than all, editorial and business manage- 201 3 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. ment. It is remarkable what old heads these young gentlemen have. The Messenger was issued also as a daily for about two months in the fall of 1879, as a six-columni folio. Inability to obtain the Associated Press dispatches, and the consequent necessity of print- ing the paper at Evansville, led the proprietors to abandon the enterprise. amIn connection with the above is a large and nice job office, said to be the largest in the State west of Louisville, possibly the largest in the State outside of Louisville. The material 's the con- solidation of two considerable offices. Their large power press, the Cottrell Babcock, is run by hydraulic force from the city water-works, equal to four lorse-power. A grammar has just beeii printed at this office. C. IF Brrnsford was born in Owensboro, Ky., Jan. 24, 1858, a son of Benj.-and Mary E.(Athy) Bransford; attended schools here but graduated in the literary course at Cumberland University Lebanon, Tenn., in June, 1877. He then attended the law school at Louisville, where he completed the junior course, and was elected salutatorian from this class, as a testimonial to his profi- ciency. le next accepted a temporary position in Clarke Crutcher's stempiery. At the close of the tobacco business for the season of 1878 he became sub-editor of the Aessenger, under J. A. Minday. Within two months lie was offered a partnership in the paper, which he accepted, in September, 1878, etc., as above noted. Dec. 21, 1882, Mr. Bransford mnarried Virgie Lee Finley, of Lebanon. Tenn., a daughter of Dr. W. M. Finley, a native of Clarksville, Tenn., and a niece of Congressman Finley, of Florida. M, r. Bransford is a young man of remarkable business and execui- tive talent, and if he lives will make a bright tiark in the world. If he should rise to political prominence, lie will not be a '" bark- ing dog," and he therefore might ''bite," where there is occasion in some contest. The Hopkinsville South Kentuckian truly says of him: " His style of writing possesses a degree of profundity far beyond his years when lhe is handling editorial subjects. He is very temperate, and is a model young man in his habits, although he does not belong to any church. -Concerning his physical ap- pearance the South Kewutekian thus words it: " His hair is a bright auburn., and lie has a fine red mustache and brown eyes. 202 HISTORY OF DAVIESS coUNTY. He is very quiet in his demeanor, and loves his profession more than he does his sweet-heart!" Urey C. Woodson was born at Madisonville, Ky., Aug. 16, 1859, the son of S. C. and R. J. (Hawthorn) Woodson, the former a native of Hopkins County, Ky., and the latter of Anderson County, Ky. When he was about five years old his parents moved to Ev- ansville, Ind., where he grew to manhood, attending school, etc. At the age of sixteen he entered the newspaper business in that city first on theEvening Herald, afterward on the Sunday Argus, and later on the Evansville Daily Courier. He then went to Green- ville, Ky., in the fall of 1T77, and published the A/h/enburg Echo, a weekly, which he enlarged and made prosperous. In the autumn of 1881 lie sold this paper and became connected with the Messenger. S Hon. James A. Munday, born in Hancock County, Ky., Aug. 14, 1843, was a son of Redmond and Martha L. (Hamnilton) Mun- day. His father was a descendant of Reuben Munday, one of the first settlers of Virginia. Hle came to Kentucky when a young man, and was married here. He had a family of two daughters and one son, the daughters both deceased. Ile died when his son was two years old. After the death of his father Jlames A. and his mother moved to Hawesville, where he attended school till fourteen years of age. Hle then entered Greenville Academy, at that time flourishing under the presidency of Hon. Edward Rum- sey, and superintendence of James K. Patterson, present President of the Kentucky State College. Ile afterward attended the Georgetown College, his junior year being interrupted by the political troubles preceding the war, on account of which the school was discontinued. Mr. Munday then returned home. and in August, 1862, after several unsuccessful attempts, succeeded in reaching the Confederate lines and enlisted in Company It, Tenith Kentucky Confederate Cavalry, under comnaland of Captain 11. C. Meriweather. The regiment was afterward assigned to General Morgan's command, in all the engagements and mov'ements of which he took an active part. le wis in a few months promoted to a Lieutenancy for soldierly conduct, and when Captain Meri- weather was detailed for other duty, lie took charge of the com- pany, in which capacity hle did much service as a scout. His company and another under his command were assigned to the advance of the Second Brigade on General Morgan's memorable invasion of Indiana and Ohio, and were among the first to) charge 203 2HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. and carry the breast-works of Corydon. After the most remark- able ride on record his command was foiled in its attempts to recross the river at Buffington Island, Ohio, and in attempting to rally a few men and assist in covering a retreat, he with several of his regiment were surrounded and captured, and taken to John- son's Island. The Government having determined on special severity with those who had dared to invade "the sacred soil," sent half of General Morgan's officers to the Ohio penitentiary, and the other half to the western penitentiary of Pennsylvania at Allegheny, holding themn as exempt from the cartel of exchange. After eight months of close confinement, Mr. Munday with his fellow officers were transferred to Point Lookout, and afterward to Fort Delaware. At the close of the war he returned to Hawes- ville, and soon after his mother was killed by berg thrown from a buggy. Mr. Maunday attended a course of lectures at the Louis- ville Law University. On his return home he took charge of the Circuit Clerk's office as Deputy, and the following summer was elected Circuit Clerk-the youngest clerk ever elected in the State. HIe held the office two years. During the time he was elected Assistant Secretary of the Kentucky Senate. After the expiration of his term of office he commenced the practice of law in Hawesville. In 1870 lhe came to Owensboro and formed a partnership with Judge George W. Williams. In 1871 he was made Master Commissioner of Daviess County Circuit Court; re- signed that office in 1875 and formed a business partnership with Thomas S. Pettit in the manufacture of staves. He sold out in 1879 and became the owner of the Owensboro Mlonitor office, and established the Owensboro Jfessenger, a weekly Democratic newspaper, a half interest in which was sold in 1878 to C. W. Bransford. After beginning the publication of the daily XJessenger, in the fall of 1878, it was consolidated with the Examiner, a weekly paper then owned by L. Lumpkin, firining the Owensboro Messen- ger and rami-eea, published weekly and semi-weekly. Mr. Munday continned in editorial charge of these papers until the spring ot 1881, when he severed his connection with thein and enzaged in the canvass for Senator in his district, comprising Daviess and McLean counties. He was elected Senator in August, 1881, and took an active part in the legislation of the session of 1881-'82. le is a inember of the Star Lodge, No. 19, K. of P.; Owensboro'Lodge, No. 130, A. F. A. M.. and Owensboro Lodge, 1. O. O. F. 204 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Tkhe Saturday Post.-This sprightly gazette was established by A. T. Craycroft and Geo. V. Triplett, the first number appearing Sept. 3, 1881. Mr. T. is the business manager and editor. The paper is an eight-column folio, the columns a half-em wider than the standard measure, and it is issued every Saturday morning. It is sincerely and purely Democratic in politics, as the party has attested by sending its editor as their Representative to the Legis- lature. Jan. 26, 1883, Mr. Craycroft retired from the fit-mn, leaving Mr. Triplett alone. The typography and make-up of the paper is magnificent, its editorials spicy, and its selections rich. Mr. T. has a high degree of originality as well as of literary ability. See chapter entitled "Authors and Artists." In connection with the Post is a fine job departnent. Tile ed- itorial and composition rooms are models of neatness. Office in Hill's new block, a few doors north of the Planter's Hotel. George Vest Triplett was born in Frankfort, Ky., Jan. 30, 1856, and is a son of Robert S. and Louisa M. (Vest) Triplett. When he was two or three years of age the family moved to Louisville, Ky., and soon afterward (which was about the beginning of the war) they came to Owensboro, where they have since made it their home. The subject of this notice has taken a course of studv at Transylvania University, and also Central University, Richmond, Ky., finishing both an. academic and a law course. His law pre- ceptor was Wni. Chenault, one of the finest instructors of law in America. He was admitted to the bar at Richmond, and oil his return to Owensboro lie commenced the practice of law in the office of Williams Brown, remaining there about two years, 1877-'9, when he became assistant editor of the Examiner. When this paper was consolidated with the Alessenger, Mr. Triplett went to Washington City to accept a position on the Daily Post. In the beginning of the summer of 1880, he formed a partnership with Camden Riley, Sr. In August, 1881, he was elected to the Legislature and immediately started the Saturday Post, as above mentioned. As a lawyer Mr. Triplett still takes such business as will not interfere with the interests or his paper. He is a member of the order of Knights of Pythias, and is still one of " ye jolly bache- lors," whose doings in their club-room (. he so wittily writes up in his paper. A short sketch of Mr. Craycroft is given in Chapter V. 205 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Metkodest Standard.-This was started in February, 1882, by Revs. J. S. Scobee, G. H. Hays, D. D., and B. F. Orr. It is a four-page mnonthly, with four wide columns to the page. A sketch of Mr. Scobee appears in another part of this volume. Mr. Orr is a resident of Owensboro, and Mr. Hays of Cloverport. The paper is printed by 0. T. Kendall Co. Home and Scktool.-This is a local educational monthly started in January, 1883. by 0. T. Kendall Co. It has eight pages four columns to the page. An effort was made in 1866 to establish the Bapt'st Herald in Owensboro, but in vain. The Press Association of Kentucky met in Owensboro, June 7 and 8, 1871, when a good delegation was welcomed by the citi- zens. They met first in the court-house and then at the Baptist church, when Colonel R. M. Kelly, of the Louisville Commercial, delivered a very amusing address, and Benjamin Casseday read an original poem. In the evening a sumptuous banquet was given at Allen Gilmour's, and also at Bransford's hall,-the latter given by the citizens. A large share of the credit for the success of the occasion is due R. HI. Taylor, J. II. McHenry. T. C. Jones and J. G. Ford. The tables were supplied by F. T. Guenther. Kelly's address and Casseday's poem were published in full in the next number of the AMonitor. 206 CHAPTER IX. AUTHORS AND ARTISTS. JAMES WEIR. One of the oldest members of the Daviess County bar, and a prominent business man of Owensboro, was born in Greenville, Ky., June 16, 1821. His father, James Weir, was born near Charleston, S. C., and belonged to a Presbyterian family of Scotch- Irish descent, that emigrated to America from the north of Ireland. His mother, Anna RJuinsey, was born ill Virginia. and was a niece of James Runmsey, who is justly entitled to the claini of being the first to apply steam as a means of propelling boats. His father came to Kentucky toward the close of the last century. He first adopted the business of surveyor, and afterward exchanged this for a mercantile career, and his business extended over a wide ex- tent of territory. Ile carried on, and managed,. under his own supervision at the same time, stores at Equality and Shawneetown in Illinois; at 1-enderson, Morganfield, Madisonville, Greenville, Lewisburg, Tlopkinsville and Russellville, in Kentu eky, a at Gallatin, in Tennessee. Although a large amount of capital was necessarily involved in this extensive and wide-spread business, it was his boast that he never borrowed a dollar, nor failed to meet a debt at its maturity. James Weir. the subject of this sketch, was educated at Centre College, at Danville, Ky., one of the oldest institutions of the State. After graduating here he entered the law school of Tran- sylvania University, in Lexington, where he prepared for the legal profession. March 1, 1842, he married Miss Susan C. Green, daughter of Judge John Green. of Danville. Mr. Weir settled in Owensboro in 1848, and devoted himself to the practice of law, gaining a high standing at the bar as a chancery lawyer. He found time, however, to give to literary pursuits, and in 1849-'50 three novels appeared, of which he was the author. During his residence in Owensboro, Mr. Weir developed busi- ness qualities of no ordinary character, and when the Deposit Bank was organized in 1859, he was chosen its President, and still (207) HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. continues in that position. To his management is chiefly due its present high standing among the banking institutions of Ken- tucky. He was the first President of the COwensboro Russell- yille (now the Evansville, Owensboro Nashville) Railroad. This office lie retained from 1869 till the latter part of 1878. Mr. Weir has never mingled in politics, nor has lhe ever been a candidate for any public office. He has attended strictly to his professional business, and since 1850 has had little time to indulge his inclination for light literature, or at least to no greater extent than to be the author of some fugitive pieces which have appeared from time to time in the popular magazines of the day. His ample means have not had the effect of making him selfish or il- liberal. Ile has taken part in every public enterprise which prom- ised to be of benefit to the community. In 1880 he opened a large factory for the manufacture of carriage material, a more full account of which is given in the history of Owensboro. Mr. Weir's charities have been wide, but unostentations. While his abilities as a financier have been of service in building up his own fortune, they have also been exerted for the promotion of the interests of the city and County of which heis a resident. Mr. Weir's residence is one of the most magnificently frescoed buildings in this part of the world. The work cost over 12,000, and was done by an ex-offlicer of the Confederate army, of foreign birth and education. The elegant historic paintings on the ceiling of the library, in the groupings and combinations, are a constant source of study andl pleasure. Mr. Weir demonstrated his capacity as a literoteur when com- paratively young. Before he was thirty years of age he wrote and published three stories, which were bound in book form and sup- plied to the regular trade by the chief publishing house of Phila- delphia, Lippincott, Grambo Co. The works are the following: 1. SIMON KENTON. This is a novel in which it is designed to give a sketch of the habits and striking characteristics of the popu- lation of the western portion of North Carolina immediately fol- lowin(g the war for independence, and in it to introduce Simon Kenton, the great scout and Indian fighter, and also his constant opponent and enemy, Simon Girty, the tory and renegade. In this volume the character in which Kenton was interested and con- nected came off victorious. 2. THE WINTER LODGE is a sequel to Simon Kenton, and trans- ports all the characters to Kentucky in an early day when first set- 208 This page in the original text is blank. r; - 7 N. 1 .WA .. ..I .-I II.,: c-WE..1, '' "' i...,.,..:. :... V., . A' .' Z., k -,a V'z I HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. tled; and in it are introduced many of the most striking characters of that period, and many incidents in the early history of Ken- tucky, with sketches of scenery, the Mammoth Cave, etc., and also the battles in which Simon Kenton and Simon Girty were en- gaged, and the habits and marked characters of the early pioneers. The name " Winter Lodge " is derived from the name of a cabin erected by Kenton for the hero and heroine of these two volumes, and ornamented with carpets of buffalo hides, lined with furs. Mr. Weir intended in his younger days to write a sequel to this volume, running down to the War of 1812, and the death of Ken- ton and Girty, but increasing business on his hands prevented him. In Collins' History of Kentucky there is a sketch of the life and times of Kenton, and Girty was a desperado who figured largely among the pioneers of Kentucky and Indiana. 3. LONZ PowERS; or, the Regulators: A romance of Kentucky, based on scenes and incidents in this State. This interesting story was published in two duodecimo volumes, 319 and 364 pages, in the year 1850, by Lippincott, Grambo Co., Philadelphia. HON. GEORGE H. YEAMAN, now a resident of New York City, but formerly 'of Owensbor6, wrote and published-a work on the " Study of Government," while he was a resident at Copenhagen, Denmark, as a United States Minister. A biographical sketch of Mr. Yeaman appears in the chapter entitled, " Sketches of Pnblic Men." COLONEL ROBERT SCOTT BEVIER, President of the Owensboro Nashville Railroad, was born at Painted Post, Steuben Co., N. Y., April 28, 1834. His father, Benjamin W. Bevier, was a farmer of that place, and about one year afterward moved to Michigan, and then to Kentucky. The family, whose name originally was De la Baviere, caine from France, at the time of the "Massacre of St. Bartholomew's Day," which event compelled them to seek refuge in Holland, where they remained about 100 years, and until they emigrated to this country with the New York Patroon, Van Rensselaer. After re- ceiving a liberal education he commenced the study of law under the direction of John Todd, Esq., of Russellville, a distinguished lawyer of Logan County, and continued it at the law school at Lebanon, Tenn. On the completion of his studies, and his admission to the bar in 1852, he went to Bolivar, Polk Co., Mo., and commenced the practice of his profession. 14 209 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. In the winter of 1855 he went to Kansas as Prosecuting Attorney' and while there became engaged in the " Wakarusa war," and in the various conflicts with John Brown and his followers. In 1856 he located at Keoknk, Iowa, but in consequence of the strong Republican tendencies of that vicinity, lhe soon removed to Bloom- ington, Macon Co., Mo., where lie continued to reside until the breaking out of the late civil war, having met good success in the practice of his profession. During that timne he was selected as local attorney for the Hannibal, St. Joseph North Missouri R. R., County School Commissioner, Douglass Elector for his district, in 1S59, and was appointed division inspector, by Governor Jack- son, with the rank of Colonel. He was unanimously elected to the command of the regiment from Macon County, and, joining Henry Sterling Price, was soon engaged in the struggle, partici- pating in the battles of Drywood, Elkhorn, Farmington, Itika, Corinth, Grand Gulf, Port Gibson. Champion Hills, Big Black, and through the sieges of Lexington, Vicksburg, and Richmond. His regiment becoming greatly reduced in numbers by hard ser- vice and casualties, he was ordered to Richmond, as General Military Agent for the State of Missouri, continuing there until the close of the war, with the exception of the time consumied in a mission of carrying foreign dispatches to Cuba, in the accomplish- ment of which he was obliged to run the famous blockade. At the termination of the war he returned to his old home at Russellville, Ky., being prevented, by reason of political disabilities, at that time existing, from returning to Missouri. He again resumed the practice of law, and was elected Vice-Presidlent and General Agent of the Owensboro Russellville Railroad. Mr. Bevier possesses fine literary qualities, and contributes to various magazines. While a resident of Russellville, Ky., hle prepared a fvery fine history of the First and Second Missouri Con- federate Brigades; also a " Military Anagraph," being a journal of his experiences in the army, " From Wakarusa to Appomattox." The two accounts are published together in one volume of a little more than 500 octavo pages, by Bryan, Brand Co., St Louis, Mo.. in 1S78. The work is ablv written,being prepared with great care, and is illustrated with very fine steel portraits of General Sterlinr Price, Senator F. M. Cockrell of Missouri, Dr. J. M. Allen, and of himself. The volume concludes with a list of survivors of those brigades, with present (1878) residence and occupation. 210 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. GEO. V. I TRIPLETT, editor of the Saturday Post, is a witty, original writer. " His An- nals of the Bachelors' Club," published in the Post in the aututnn of 1882, are rich and racy. The following poem has gone the "' rounds of the press," and finally found its way into the play of the "Jolly Pathfinders," now so well 'known throughout the nation. SONG OF THE HAMMOCK. I. Shady tree, Babbling brook, Girl in hammock, Reading book. Golden curls, Tiny feet, Girl in hammock Looks so sweet. Man rides past, Big mustache, Girl in hammock Makes a "mash." Mash is mutual, Day is set, Man and maiden Married get. II. Married now One year ago, Keeping house On Baxter Row. Red-hot stove, Beefsteak frying, Girl got married, Cooking trying. Cheeks all burning, Eyes look red, Girl got married- Nearly dead. Biscuits burn up, Beefsteak charry, Girl got married, Awful sorry. Man comes home, Tears mustache, Mad as blazes, Got no hash, Thinks of hammock In the lane, Wishes maiden Back again. Maiden also Thinks of swing, Wants to go back, Too. Poor thing. III. Hour of midnight, Baby squalling, Man in sock-feet Bravely walking. Baby yells on, Now the other Twin, he strikes up Like his brother. Paregoric By the bottle, Emptied into Baby's throttle. Naughty tack Points in air, Waiting some one's Foot to tear. Man in sock feet, See him-there, Holy Moses, Hear him swear! Raving crazy Gets his gun, Blows his head off. Dead and gone. TV. Pretty widow With a book, In a hammock By the brook. Man rides past, Big mustache, Keeps on riding, NARY MASH. 2111 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. A short biographical sketch of Mr. Triplett appears in the chapter on the "I Press." REV. B. F. ORR, a Methodist minister of Owensboro, a short time ago wrote and published a work entitled "The Papal Power in Politics; or, Rome against Liberty." It was a duodecimo of 256 pages, written for popular reading, and from the standpoint of the citizen. It is not a work for the learned only, but for the masses. The paper and type are very fine, and no doubt every citizen of Daviess County is or ought to be interested in this great question. PROF. J. H. GRAY, son of Thomas W. and Susan (Fry) Gray, both natives of Vir- ginia, was born in Elkton, Todd Co., Ky.. April 9. 1824. His father was a merchant and farmer. When nine years of age his parents moved on a farm; remained two years and then went to Louisville, where his father became a merchant. He died in 1842. J. H. attended school at Louisville, and also at George- town College, Kentucky. Took up teaching near Frankfort; then had charge of an Academy in Burlington; went back to Louis- ville, taught in that neighborhood seven or eight years; then went to Russellville, Ky., and taught mathematics in Bethel College seven years; then came to Owensboro in 1869 and took charge of Central Baptist Institute, now the Upper Ward school building, for two years; sold out to the town, on account of graded public schools. He was engaged as Superintendent of Public Schools, which he organized and conducted two years. He then taught a private school here one year, and returned to Bethel College and taught mathematics eight years. Returned in the summer of 1882 and started a private classical school on Bolivar street. He has thirty eight scholars, and is doing well. He was married May 8, 1861, to Miss Fannie Wirt Fry, daughter of W. W. Fry, of Louis. yille, Ky. They had eight children, four living-Fannie W., Leslie Walker, Herbert S. and Eugeriia D. Prof. and Mrs. Gray are both members of the Baptist Church. Politically he is a Democrat. A request to Mr. Gray, for a review of his system of teaching grammar, elicited the following reply: Swinton, in the preface of his grammar, says that " at the time of its first publication (1872), it had become a conviction in the minds of many thoughtful teachers and others that English gram- 212 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. mar, as set forth in books and taught in schools, was failing to accomplish its avowed end, namely, ' to teach the art of speaking and writing the English language with propriety."' He then says that his "Progresive Grammar was an attempt to break loose frotn the shackles of purely technical grammar-to strip it of fruit- less formalism, and to introduce the constructive element. The experience of the school-room led the author to believe that a method of language-training quite different from that mainly in vogue was necessary; there arose, in fact, the thought of langutge as one thing, and grammar as another thing." I believed fully in this general failure in teaching grammar, but not in the implied cause, IIThe shackles of purely technical gram- mar," nor in the proposed remedy. "Language as one thing and grammar as another tliing;"-by which is meant that the correct use of language should be taught rather by empirical practice, than by a logical examination of its structure. No grammar is freed from "technical shackles," and Mr. Swintorn's is as fall of them as the rest. The plan applied for their removal is to anticipate or supplement them with endless respective written exercises. It is but eking out by rote the failure of clear analytic comprehension. It is falling upon what is called, in opposition to the analytic, the "natural" method, so much in vogue in teachinig the modern languages. In my Report of the Owensboro Public Schools (1872) occurs the following language:- "A word upon the much praised ecatural methods in teaching. The correct name is infantile methods, or animal methods, sensi- tive methods, rote methods, repetition methods, versus rational or logical methods. It is the method of the French phrase book, by which young ladies learn to repeat a number of polite expressions, and call it the knowledge of the French language. If there is any thing which science means, it is the acquisition of knowledge through the medium of its organic laws and relations; it is the proposition that the human mind is competent to grasp the princi- ples, and from these elaborate the formal modes of the subject- matter. It means that we do not learn all things else, as we learned to babble our mother tongue; that we have not to become infants at the threshold of each new subject which we wish to learn, but by the unfolding of our rational powers, we can avail ourselves of rational conditions and methods." Education is the exercise of the judgment, rather than the memory; and the acquisition of the knowledge of a principle is 213 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. the comprehension of a thousand facts, in their essential import and relation. Grammar is the science of the structure of language, and if it fails to teach its correct use, it is because it is not under- stood, or is willfully disregarded. The causes of failure in teaching it are: 1. The cumbrous absurdities of the Murray system in treating the English as an inflected language-on the basis of the Latin. 2. False nomenclature and definitions conveying indistinct and indiscriminate ideas of its principles. 3. The inconsistencies and obscurities of its analysis. 4. The presumptive nse of technical verbiage previously to its explanation. 5. The p]edantry of the author and the presumed erudition of the pupil in making the examples a copious expression of the gems of literature-as intelligible and cogent as if they were written in Latin. 6. The address of the expression, the notes, the well-pointed remarks to the literary public, instead of to the comprehension of the common school-boy who has to learn the meaning from the words. 7. The presumption of an accurate knowledge of elementary grammar, philosophy, etc., in the reckless abruptness of the more advanced grammars -rendering them incomplete and impracticable as independent books for mature pupils. 8. The obscure and intricate culling of one element at a time in empirical exercises obscured by the ignorance of the pupil of the other elements of the sentence-a3pecially the erudite sentences of those advanced grammars which are presumed to teach the science of lang-uage. 9. Big books crammed with incidentals that the boy need not know. In my own teaching I have generally used some one of the popular grarnmars,-floundering as best I could in the midst of its intrica- cies, -skipping, doubling, reversing in many ways to lead (not load) the mind of the p ipil along a clear and consistent course. In organizing the Owensboro Public Schools, I reco-mmended one for use, and had no thouglitofresorting to singular methods of instruc- tion, only so far as the exigencies of the case should require. It was in endeavoring to remove the difficulties of the teachers that I suggested what I conceived to be a systematic course, an adequate nomenclature, and exhaustive analysis. I believe in the minimum 214 HISTORY OF DAV IESS COUNTY. use of text-books; and that in a graded school, the best plan is to teach grammar simply by diagramis and discussions, without the use of a book. But this was left to the teacher, and if mI analysis had gone no further than the teachers' meetings. it would have served my purpose, if the teacher did not need it in the school- room. The object was to teach the pupil the knowledge of the language, and not to introduce any special system of grammar. In the expression of the analysis of the lallguage, two general methods present themselves,-the one -a descriptive analysis with- out technicalnomenclature, which mllay be easily done; the other a technical notation of each principle. In my own teaching I might hesitate as to which I should adopt. Ini a casual suggestion to others-a mnere synopsis,--a collection of diagrams and defini- tions, the use of nomenclature fixes and recalls the analysis. In chemistry the nomenclature is of great service in expressing the character and relations of the elements and coinmpounds. In the midst of their multiplicity, the seemingly confusing terms and formulas really give a succinct expression of the plinciples which could hardly be otherwise so simply presented. This must be the case in a thorough grammatical notation. A single illustration will exhibit the method: Case was defilled, in the books, to be the relation'of the noun to otherwords in the sentence. Then we had the nominative case, "1 independent " or " absolute," implying and asserted to be with- out relation. Then we had the expression, 0, thou good boy!- no sentence at all, buit the noun havinga case, and the independent nominative having a relation to other words. The nominative was said to be generally the agent, actor or doer, and then we had the nominative equally prominent as the reverse of agent or actor. It was said to be always the subject of the verb (Pinneo), and then it was predicate arid not subject. The nominative in apposition was annexed for emphasis or explanation of the subject-contra-distin- guished in the mind of the pupil, from the subject. We had the objective case as the object of action, contrasted to the nominative; then the nominative as subject and object of action; the' objective case as agent, witlh the nominative as object. We had the general definition of the noun as the natne of an object, yet one was sub- ject and the other object-an objective case because it was the tobject, and when it was not the object, and though anl object, and he object of the ve rb yet not the objective, but the nominative. And all these intricate "; relations " were but two cases. Thley are 215 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. very clear to you-and so is Greek when you understand it. But it is terrible Greek to the boy. A nomenclature which would eluci- date all this, would have to bear the charge of introducing new and multiple cases; bilt it might, by calling distinct things by relatively distinct names, discriminate them and their relations to the strug- gling mind, and stamp with a term an idea which would save the endless repetition and circumlocution of rote parsing. The verb is as barbarously mangled as the noun. It expressed action, being or state. The word action expresses action, and is not a verb; the word being or existence expresses being, and is not a verb; the word state or condition expresses state, and is not a verb. The potential mode denotes not only power, but will, obligation, permission, etc. The imperative mode is used by the beggar, and by mnan in invoking his Maker. The infinitive mode is not infinite, the indicative mode does not " simply indicate." Such are some of the beauties of most of the grammars. The teacher in such case should use every endeavor and device to re- move the obscurities, and not thrust the senseless jargon into the unwitting memory of the child. If the verb be defined as the term employed to assert or make the statement, or affirm in the sense of making an affirmation,-in whatever mode declarative; and a sentence be defined to be a statement about some object, with which others may be subordinately associative or otherwise illustrative; and apreposition be termed a relative; then the distinctions of nominative and objective may be expressed as: AFFIRMAL. SUE -AFFIRMAL. Affirmate=subject. Sub-verbal. Affirmant=predicate. Sub-relative. Co-affirmal-apposition. Mine=Pass-affirmal. Vocal=independent. Poss-subverbal, etc. The above is sufficient to suggest the general method. Having been engaged in the exclusive teaching of mathematics for the last eight years, no further interest was felt in the system. The fol- lowing diagram will illustrate the simplicity with which its princi- ples were discussed: GRAMMAR-DISCUSSION 1.-IMPORT. 1. An Element is one of the kinds of parts of which anything is composed. 2. A Relation is a (special) kind of connection. a16 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. 3. A Principle is a law of relations-depending on the nature of things. 4. Science is the explanation of principles-an explanation of the laws of the kind of connection, depending on the kinds of parts of which anything is composed. 5. Art is the application of the principles of science. 6. Definition may give the meaning, dependent on the elements or constitution of anything; or its import, which is its meaning in relation to something, from which it may be discriminated. 7. Language: we all know the meaning of this term. 8. Grammar is the science of language, and the art of correctly applying its principles. JOHN FRANCIS ALLEN, PAINTElR. John F. Allan, born March 4, 1852, in Daviess County, Ky., is a son of Benjamin S. and Rebecca (Evans) Allan, natives of Jef- ferson County, Ky. His father came to Daviess County in 1851, and located on a farm eight miles from Owensboro, on the Hardin- burg road. He lived there nine years and then sold it, and bought another seven miles east of Owensboro, where lie still lives. John F. was the eldest of six children. He attended the district school of his neighborhood, known as the "Pleasant Valley" school, and afterward spent three years at school in Louisville. His earliest delights were connected with pictures, and his high- est aspirations to be an artist. His visit to the Centennial in 1876, that sublime vista of art treasures, only impressed him the more with a higher appreciation and respect for that which he ever had a fondness-the fine arts. And though for a time his productions were undervalued by the community, scarcely obtaining for him- self a subsistence, yet he was content to dwell in simple retirement, believing that labor would bring its own reward. The love of the beautiful was the law of his being; the beautiful in nature and art, his chief joy. It is said the sight of the mountain and sea moved him with unutterable thought. And that years ago, while on a visit to St. Louis, Mo., he became so interested and forgetful of self and his surroundings in the study of a statuette, he was un- consciously robbed of his watch, which was never captured. While Mr. Allen's portraits possess not the finish which are given by other artists of more experience, yet he is remarkable in securing a true likeness, and his productions seem to flow from his hand with freedom. He says while he neither expects profit nor 217 1HISTORY OF DA.VIES3 COUNTY. fame from his profession, yet the pleasure derived from it have amply rewarded him; that it has multiplied and refined his enjoy- meents. His chief delight is in obscurity and repose, embodying the visions of beauty that rise before his spiritual sight, and they expand into full-blown beauty as he ponders over them. HARRY I. JOY. There are many good violinists in Daviess County; but when a blacksmith tops them all as a note-reader and violin-player, like Mr. Joy, he ought to be honorably mentioned by name. This genius was born in Henderson in 1834, and has spent all his life in the South. He came to Owensboro in 1880, since which time he has resided here, an ' artificer'in iron" at Guenther's Novelty Machine Shop, excelling in the manufacture of mill-picks. He has no family. WILLIAM A. M 'GILL, a photographer by trade, but now a traveling salesman, is an ex- traordinarily good violinist. W. S. STONE, the noted distiller, is also a fine performer upon the four-stringed instrument. A REMARKABLE AUTOGRAPH ALBUM. Probably the most valuable autograph album in this part of the country is in the possession of Dr. Phil. T. Johnson, of Owens. boro, but was originally the property of his aunt, Miss Eliza R. Triplett. It contains seventy-five leaves, nine and a half by eleven and a half inches in size, gilt-edged, and substantially bound in embossed morocco. But its remarkable value consists in its auto- graphs of many of the most eminent statesmen -and other promi- nent men of the nation, from the days when Jackson, Van Buren and Clay were in the height of their glory to an indefinite period after the last war. The album was generally kept at Washington, D. C., where it was convenient to these great men. The reader can obtain a better idea of this remarkable heirloom if we give a list of the autographs, with either a quotation of the sentiments or some allusion to them in detail. The dedication of the album was executed by the renowned Henry Clay, as follows: 218 HISTORY OF DA.VIESS COUNTY. "My Dear Miss Eliza:-I comply with your request to record my name in your album with great pleasure. Independent of your personal claims to my friendship and esteem, you have valid hereditary titles. Besides recognizing among my valued friends your father and mother, almost every one in Kentucky who bore the honored name of Hopkins, your near and dear relations, were known to me and enjoyed my esteem and regard, as I did theirs. "May you live to realize every hope of your parents, every bless- ing and enjoyment anticipated by your young heart, and live and finally, at some far distant day, die, in a Inanneri cceptable to God. "Your faithful friend, I H. CLAY, of Ashland. Washington, 4th April, 1842." The above is written in an exceedingly fine and close hand, as if done by a very sharp, fine steel pen. The next is a page of beautiful poetry by W. 0. Butler; then the following: You ask, fair maiden, for one line; but I must give you three; For a couplet at the least, for the rhyme's sake, there must be; And a triplet, for your name's sake, therefore take from F. S. KEY, Who hopes that thus hereafter, whate'er your wishes be. Thrice more and better than you ask may be given unto thee. Francis S. Key, the reader will recollect, was the author of the celebrated patriotic song, ' The Star-spangled Banner." He fol- lows the above with a quotation from the 103d Psalm, and then indites the following stanzas, based upon the quotation: Such are thy days: so shall they pass away, As flowers that bloom at morn, at eve decay. But then there comes a life that knows no end, Rich in unfading joys that far transcend Thy highest thoughts or warmest wishes, given To those whose days on earth have fitted them for heaven. There is a covenant, it is sealed with blood; A risen Savior, a forgiving God; These all are thine. May these thy thoughts employ,- Thy days all pass in peace and end in joy. F. S. KEY. Washington, 20 July,-42. 219 2HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Handwriting a little heavy and hurried, otherwise there is nothing peculiar about it. Then follow these autographs: " Very respectfully yr obt srt, A. Sidney Johnston," Chirog- raphy light and graceful. "Incidents and anecdotes of the war requested. Respectfully, D. H. Hill." In plain but ready back hand. " Raphael Semmes." An easy hand, apparently with a quill. "James Madison." Nothing peculiar in the stroke of the pen. "P. Henry." Flourishing. "R. E. Lee." Letters tall and lean. II am, very dear Brethren, W. L. Breckenridge." Angular and careless. "L. Summers." Half printed, with " water " shading. "I remain your obt. sert., G. T. Beauregard." A fine stroke of the pen. "Capt. Del. Kemper, 1st Brig. 1st Div, near Union Mill, Va." TO MISS ELIZA R. TRIPLETT. Fair Maiden, daughter of the West, Where God in mercy did create thee, If prayer of mine can make thee blest, Long years of happiness await thee. Thy native land, in future days Columbia's darling pride and glory, With time revolving soon shall raise A chieftain long renowned in story. And he shall save the ship of State From rock, from quicksand and from billow; And rescue from impending fate Her crew, for quiet on their pillow. His voice with potent charm shall bring Order from chaos and confusion, And thou shalt hear the welkin ring With shouts of triumph in profusion. Say, for whose brow this laurel crown For whom this web of life is spinning Turn this thy Album upside down And take the end for the beginning. JOHN QUINCY ADAMS. Washington, 23 July, 1842. At the above date Mr. Adams was seventy-five years old, and the handwriting is exceedingly labored, heavy and tremulous; the let- ters are upright, and they all seem to indicate that their maker put 220 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. his whole soul into the loving task. The last stanza is a playful allusion to the fact that Henry Clay's dedication of the album above referred to, was inadvertently written in the back end of the volume, and therefore it was " downside up I " The next is a specimen of " Stonewall " Jackson's writing; then fragments from R. S. Ewell, J. A. Early, W. L. Goggin, J. S. Sed. dens, Dr. R. L. Dabney, John P. Kennedy, A. Tholuck, etc., and autographs of Stuart Robinson, Moses D. Hoge, J. T. Morehead, J. J. Crittenden, N. P. Tallmadge, Geo. Evans, G. W. S. (Sar- gent), Thomas Clayton, 0. II. Smith, Dollie P. Madison, A. W. J. White, L. F. Linn, R. J. Walker, Levi Woodbury, Thomas H. Ben- ton, Benj. Tappan, W. S. Fulton, William R. King, J. W. Miller, (of New Jeisey), J. C. Bates, Rufuis Choate, Wm. Woodbridge, Macpherson Berrien, J. C. Calhoun, Alfred Allen, Wm. D.Merrick, Silas Wright, Jr., James F. Simmons, James Buchanan, W. C. Rivis, Willis P. Mangum, Isham G. Harris, Robert McClellan, John C. Breckenridge, C. L. Vallandigham, Rev. E. W. Sehon, Francis Granger, Thos. D. Arnold, Millard Fillmore, Mrs. M. A. Jackson (wife of " Stonewall "), Bryan Y. Owsley, Roger L. Gam- ble, A. Randall, Osmyn Baker, John Van Buren, James I. Roose- velt, C. S. Todd, David Bronson, Garrett Davis, John M. Botts, Tho. Butler King, Louisa Catherine Adams (wife of John Quincy), C. Cushing, Henry A. Wise, J. R. Underwood, Alex. HI. 11. Stuart! Calvary Morris, Conrad Speece, Daniel Webster, Thomas Todd, Isaac Shelbv, J. S. Black, Hamilton Fish, T. C. McCreery, and many others. Among them is an autograph of Ne-quay, in Chinese character, of a Celestial convert whom Rev. E. W. Sehon brought over to this country. There is also in this album an envelope di- rected by Stonewall Jackson to Dr. Dabney. Among the foregoing, Crittenden's chirography is a quick, light, nervous stroke of the pen, angular and indicative of old age; Ben- ton's, steady and emphatic, but irregular as to the stand and shad- ing of the letters; Win. R. King's, neat, round,. and apparently that of a literary man or bookkeeper; Choate's, hasty, light and careless, like his speech; Calhoun's, light, graceful and well in- clined; Wright's, the same; Buchanan's, slow, careful, distinct, like setting a copy for a pupil at school, but verging to the print- ing style; John C. Breckenridge's, a light, regular and rapid stroke; Vallandigham's, a plain, running hand, apparently of a lawyer; Fillmore's, careful but unpretending; Cushing's, heavy, plain and unpretending; Wise's, tall, bold and well inclined, indicating great 221 2HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. determination; Daniel Webster's, irregular and nervous, but each stroke in itself smooth; Black's, a smooth, plain, and beautifully struck back-hand; and Fish's, smooth, tall letters, well inclined. Pardon us for one more selection: Temper, thy power, more magical Than that which graced of old Amphion's lyre! Can savage hearts with wondrous spell the mind enthrall. Can clear suspicion's mists with gladdening fire; Can chain in rosy bonds impetuous ire; Can melt the ice-bound heart of cold disdain.; Can dying love with vital breath inspire; From every passion pluck the cancerous pain, And, seeming still to yield, lead captive all the train. D. P. MADIsON. Washington, July 27,1842. - - 222 This page in the original text is blank. I 4A I;'-. I '.'E I- - 71 - I. / f CHAPTER X. MEDICAL. There has been nothing very marked in the history of the medi cal profession in Daviess County that would be of popular interest. Like the South generally, there have been very few "irregu- lars " in this section, in striking contrast with every Northern city, which has from one to two thirds of its doctors of the " irregular" sects, as homeopathists, eclectics, hydropathists, spiritualists, physio-medicals, magnetic healers, movement curers, etc., each sect being " far more successful than all the rest " in the cure of disease. Three medical associations have comprised physicians within the bounds of Daviess County, namely, the Owensboro, the Mc- Dowell and the Green River, but the two latter were united in May, 1875. At the meeting of these societies many thoroughly scientific papers have been presented on the practical points of medicine, which have served to constitute a sort of post-collegiate lecture course for the members, keeping them up with the times. THE OWENSBORO MEDICAL SOCIETY was organized about 1867, and has been kept alive to the present time, with much profit and entire satisfaction to the members. It started out with constitution and by-laws, and to the present time it continues to elect president and secretary. Place of meeting, at various offices. THE GREEN RIVER MEDICAL ASSOCIATION was organized Tuesday, Feb. 20, 1872, in Owensboro. by the elec- tion of W. HL. Hillsman, President; W. A. Hickman, First Vice- President; J. Q. A. Stewart, Recording Secretary; A. C. Wood, Corresponding Secretary, and John F. Kinibley, Treasurer. The object of the association was declared to be the raising of the dignity of the profession the cultivation of amity, and the pro- tessional advancement of all those who may desire to attach them- selves to the organization. The usual committees were appointed and the next meeting appointed to be held in May following. Ac- (223) HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. cordingly, on the Tth of this month, a profitable meeting was held in Owensboro, with increased membership, Dr. Hillsman presiding. The next meeting, Nov. 7, was held in Livermore, Dr. Luckett presiding, and was largely attended. Dr. G. B. Tyler read a valuable paper on Epidemics, and Dr. R. B. Gilbert one on Pulmonary Phthisic. Thus the society continued its meetings from time to time, until May, 1875, when it was merged into THlE M'DOWELL MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, while Dr. A. C. Wood, of Owensboro, was President of the former. Since that time it has continued to hold semi-annual meetings, spring and fall. The society comprises most of the physicians within ten or eleven counties in this part of Kentucky; namely, the present Congressional district and Ohio and Muhlen- burg counties. May 28, 1879, this society met in Owensboro, Dr. C. H. Todd in the chair, with Dr. S. S. Watkins, alternate President. Besides the discussion of many exciting medical topics, a resolution was adopted recommending the use of the decimal system of weights and measures. Dr. Harper, of Evansville, exhibited an ophthal- moscope. A resolution was passed relieving the president of the duty of delivering an annual address, and authorizing him to ap- point some member from the audience to offer an oration upon some popular subject. Oct. 27, 1880, the society convened in Owensboro again, in the city hall. Considering the adverse circumstances, quite a large delegation was present. Dr. B. H. Hobbs treated of infectious dis- eases. Physicians from other counties read papers, and many profitable discussions were held. The next meeting was appointed at Hopkinsville, May 25, 1881. Nov. 1 and 2, 1S82, the association had a large and profitable meeting in Owensboro. On this occasion J. II. Letcher, of Hen- derson, was President, and Drs. Kimbley, Stirman and Luckett, of Owensboro, Committee of Arrangements. Instructive papers were presented on a score of topics, by J. Hale, B. II. Hobbs, W. D. Stirman, E. H. Luckett, S. S. Watkins. J. F. Kinibley and others. There are now 120 members of the society. 224 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. THE KENTUCKY PHARMACEUTICAL ASSOCIATION held its third annual meeting in the Circuit Court room in Owens- boro, May 18, 1880, President Vincent Davis, of Louisville, in tile chair. Several valuable essays were read. J. T. Higgins, John W. Carter, W. 11. Courtney, S. H. Ford and Henry Megill, all of Owensboro, participated in the proceedings, and Messrs. Ford and Megill were elected Vice-Presidents. The next meeting was appointed for Louisville. PHYSICIANS OF THE PAST. Under this head we comprise all those who have practiced medi- cine in Daviess County, but are not practicing here now, whether deceased, moved away or retired. We arrange the tiames alpha- betically. Up to 1820 John Roberts and Samuel Haynes were about the only physicians in this county. They both resided in Owensboro. Dr. A. C. Wood, in 1852, was the eleventh physician in the county; and of tle eight physicians then in Owensboro, only two now remain-Drs. Stirman and Tyler. Aaron Ayer practiced in the southern part of the county 1830-'5. His neighborhood is now mostly in McLean County. Frank F. Conway, Circuit Clerk for inany years past, used to practice medicine while residing in Oakford. See Chapter V. J. W. Compton was practicing in Owensboro during the war. Thomnas Crutcher died July 18, 1881, from heart disease. He was born in Hardin County, Ky., Aug. 20, 1802; practiced medi- cine in Mississippi; followed mercantile business at Big Springs, K1y.; but on coming to Owensboro he retired from business. Henry Dun D'flay, a German physician, had an office in Owens. boro in 1868 (at least), over the drug store near the Shield office. R. B. Gilbert was a physician in Owensboro from 1866 to 1873; hle is now in Louisville. B. Gilptdrick was a physician in this county in 1866. David Glenn practiced medicine in Curdsville Precinct a num- ber of years, and also carried on a farm, where he died, Sept. 24 1881. He was born in that neighborhood ,in 1825; was a zealous member of the Cumberland Presbyterian church. A. C. Ilaynes was an Owensboro physician eight or ten years, making a specialty of diseases of the eye and of the ear. He spent several years in Europe. Ile removed to Evansville about Dec. 1, 1882. His father was 15 225 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Samuel Eaynes, one of the oldest physicians in Daviess; was practicing here as early at least as 1830. W: A. llickmaan came to Daviess County in 1865. His grand- father, James Hickman, was a Virginian, and a revolutionary soldier; was present at the siege of Yorktown, and one of the guard appointed by Washington to conduct Cornwallis to Richmond. His father, William Hickman, was born near Winchester, Va., in 1791, and at the age of twenty-two moved to Shelby County, Ky. He married Mary M. Cadwell, of Charlotte County, Va., and after- ward moved to Sangamon County, Ill., where he died at the age of eighty-three, having filled among other positions that of Represen- tative in the Illinois Legislature. The education of iDr. Hickman was obtained almost entirely in Shelby County. Carty Wells, afterward Judge of the Supreme Court of Missouri, was one of his teachers. In the fall of 1837 he began the study of medicine in Shelby County, and in 1840 entered the Louisville University, where he graduated in 1842. Returning to Shelby County for the purpose of establishing himself as a phy- sician, he found that his practice was likely to conflict with that of his old preceptor, Dr. George W. Nichols, to whom he was under many obligations, and in consequence began practice at Bardstown. In 1844 he was married to Burnette Barbour, who died in 1853, leaving four children, two of whom are still living. In 1854 he married Susan L. Suit, of Maryland. For personal reasons Dr. Hickman left the fine practice which he had acquired during his residence of twenty-three years in Bards- town, and came to Daviess County, locating on the Livermore road, nine miles south of Owensboro. During his stay in the county lie made many friends and gained a professional reputation of a high character. The railroad running south from Owensboro is one of the measures of improvement in which Dr. Hickman has been interested. He aided the undertaking in every way possible, and wvas President of the company. He also gave some notoriety to the medicinal springs in his neighborhood, to which many in- valids have resorted with benefit. See Chapter XI. Whig, Demo- crat, and Southern sympathizer is the record of his politics. James H., Burnette B., and Aurelia J. are his children. The son has chosen his father's profession, and is a graduate of the Medical University of Louisville. Dr. Hickman is now an honored resident and prosperous physi- cian of Springfield, Ill. 9226 n1sr oRY oF DAVIESS COUNTYr. Henry B. Roberts, brother of Dr. John Roberts, was born in Frankfort, Ky., Dec. 12, 1806. He studied medicine with his father, John Roberts, and his brother-in-law, Dr. Francis Lloyd, of Frankfort, and came to Owensboro in 1837 and commenced the practice of medicine with his brothers He continued in this con- nection until 1852, when his brother died. In 1842 he was mar- ried to Jiarriotte 1H. Daveiss, daughter of General Jolhn Daveiss. They had nine children, four of whom are now living in Owens- boro with their mother. Dr. Roberts's acquaintance in Owens- boro and Daviess County was very extensive during the long period of his thirty years' residence here. The long exposure and hardships incident to his professional career undermined his con- stitution, and for several years before his death he was afflicted with asthma, which finally culminated in lung troubles. He was a Democrat in politics throughout all the reverses of that party. His admiration for the H-on. Elijah Hise almost amounted to adoration. He adhered to the Baptist church and died in its communion in June, 1868. Dr. Roberts was a kind father, a good husband, and a true friend. He was possessed of fine judgment and always took anr active interest in public affairs. Johns Roberts, a brother of the preceding, was the first physician who settled in Owensboro. He was born in Virginia about the year 1788. His father, Dr. John Roberts, was a Pruis- sian, and came to America during the Revolutionary war, in which he was a surgeon until its close. After this lie married Miss Weissengen, of Virginia, and soon moved to Frankfort, Ky. The subject of this sketch came to the " Yellow Banks" in 1811. About the year 1813 lhe married Alice Mary Moseley, who died about 1839. Dr. Roberts never married a second time. In 1817, and for several terms thereafter, lie represented his district in the State Senate, and died in 1852. Dr. John Roberts practiced his profession in Owensboro and Daviess County nearly forty years, and in that period formed friendships and attachments, the impression of which has not, even in this late day, been effaced. In politics lie rwas an ultra State Rights Democrat, and a great admirer of General Jackson. In the disagreement between Mr. Calhoun and the administration, lie was in strong sympathy with Mr. Calhoun. A few months be- fore his death he made a profession of the Christian religion, and adhered to the Presbyterian faith. ReVt. II. HI. Hopkins, thein 227 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. pastor of the Old School Presbyterian church, was his frequent visitor during his long illness. J. 0. Scott came to Owensboro in the spring of 1866; was in partnership wXith I)r. Charles H. Todd until the fall of 1872, when he went to Florida for his health. He is now residing in Sher- man, Tex. Ile was a man of considerable energy. J. Q. A. Stewart practiced a number of years at Sorghotown, then in Owensboro four or five years, and then, about 1877 or 1878, received the appointment of physician to tire Institute for the Feeble Minded at Frankfort. Di. Davicd Todd was born and raised in Fayette County, Ky. He graduated at Danville, and practiced medicine at Rodney, Miss., some years. In 1850 he came to Daviess County and en- gaged in farming for many years, in which he succeeded well, but lost heavily by the war. He was for many years a faithful School Commissioner. . He died Sept. 14, 1878, in Owensboro. Dr. Mall was raised in this county, and began the practice of his profession here in Owensboro, where he died, in the winter of 1852-'3. Jazes TWeir, son of President Weir, scarcely commenced prac- tice here as a physician. He is now in St. Louis. Alatthew T1il/ams, a native'also of Daviess County, was a phy sician here 1840-'8. Obed IFV7son was in partnership awhile with Dr. Wood, and in 1834 moved to Shelby County, Ky. Ile is now in Florida. PRESENT PHYSICIANS. _Lewis G. Airm2encit, Mlasonville, was born in Lawrence County, Ky., May 22, 1851. His parents were Henry F. and Matilda (Weinsheimer) Armendt, natives of Germany. His father is an architect. They had eight children. Lewis was the eldest of four sons. He was about six years old when lie moved with his parents to Ohio County, and settled at Hartford. Lewis remained here on the farm and attended school until sixteen; he then worked at the carpenter's trade and attended school until twenty-three, when he entered the Louisville Mledical University, graduating in March, 18 76; he then located for a short time in Owensboro, Daviess County, and soon after in Masonville, where he has since been practicing his profession. Dr. Armendt married Miss Mary M. Harris, April 22, 1878. She was born in Daviess County, Ky., and was a daughter of Phocion and Martha (Evans) Harris, old 228 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. settlers of Daviess County. Mr. and Mrs. Dr. Armendt are both members of the Baptist church, and attend the Sugar Grove church. - They have one daughter, Mary Ailenn, born Feb. 9, 1880. Dr. Armendt is a self-made man and it is through his own efforts that he became a physician, having early expressed a desire to become one. He owns a nice residence and one and one half acres of land in Masonville, where lhe resides. Dr. Armendt is one of the leading physicians of Daviess County. His political views are Democratic and lie has always been a strong supporter of that party. His father and mother are both living, and reside on the old homestead farml near Hartford, Ohio Co., Ky. Thompson W. Becdford, Owensboro; office on Mlain street, south side, a few doors east of the court-house. Practiced in Whitesville 1869-'76, since then here. Thomas W. Blacnwford, M. D., son of John R. Blandford, was born in Curdsville Precinct, April 5, 1839. He wvas reared on a farm and educated in St. Mary's College, Mlarion County. I-e commenced the study of medicine under Dr. B. B. Blincoe; was with Dra. Stirmnan Watkins, of Owensboro, a short time; gradu- ated from the medical department of Louisville University March 5, 1869. He then commenced the practice of medicine in West Louisville. In 1875 lhe formed a partnership with Dr. V. Ors- burn. They have a large practice, being very popular physicians of this precinct. He was married in 1871 to Louisa Luckett. To them have been born four children, only three living-Thomas O., Mary B. and M. Florella. George C. was drowned at the age of two years. He wandered from home thinking he was following his mother, and fell in a small stream of water. Dr. Blandford and family are members of the Catholic church. J. T. Byrne, Knottsville. Henry F. Carpenter, Z. D., Postmaster at Masonville, settled here in April, 1856. He and Dr. Chas. T. Noel named the town. They obtained a postoffice here in September, 1857. The first post- master was Dr. 1I. F. Carpenter, who held the office four years, and was reappointed in February, 1882. and is the present incum- bent. Dr. Carpenter was born in Oldham County, Ky., eighteen miles east of Louisville, near the Louisville S Frankford Railroad, Feb. 27, 1830. His parents were Joel and Mary (Snyder) Carpen- ter; they were natives of Virginia and members first of the Lutheran, then of the Regular Baptist, and afterward joined the Christian church, in which faith they died. They had twelve children. Henry 229 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. F. was the fourth son and eleventh child. He remained on the old homestead farm with his parents until fifteen, when he attended and taught school until twenty-one. He then settled on the old homestead farm for three years; then went to Louisville, Ky., and engaged in the grocery business three years. He read medicine and attended lectures until 1856 when he came to Daviess County, and located the town of Masonville. Dr. Carpenter married Miss Martha E. Taylor in Oldham County, Feb. 14,1850. She was born in Oldhain County, and was a daughter of Joseph and Mary (Speer) Taylor. Dr. and Mrs. Carpenter had four children-Mary L., wife of James P. Lislhbrook, and resides on their farm at Masonville; Albert W., M. D., who is unmarried and practicing medicine at Glumville, McLean Co., Ky.; Josephl H., who married Alice Lish- brook, and resides in Murray Precinct; Robert L. resides in Mason- ville with his father. The mother died Nov. 14, 1872. Dr. Car- penter then married Sarah E. Taylor Feb. 1, 1876. She was born in Sullivan County, Ind., and was a danughter of William and Susan Taylor. -Mrs. Carpenter is a member of the Baptist church. They have a family of two daughters, Nina M. and Ida P. Dr. Carpenter owns a nice house and lot, also the only store of general merchandise in Masonville. In politics he is a Democrat, and cast his first vote for James Buchanan for President of the United States. ,L. B. Childs, Lewis Station. -Taylois Cr igler Whlitesvil e. Calvin E. Ceottrell was born in Shelby County, Ky., July 12, 1831. His father, Rev. Reuben Cottrell, was born near Richmond, Va., and emigrated to Shelby County, where hle was one of the early pioneer preachers. Ile died AMay 29. 1862, aged seventy- two years. He married Sarah Putnam, of Virginia, whose death preceded his by several years. There was a family of ten chil- dren, five now living. Calvin E. commenced the study of medi- cine when nineteen years of age, with Dr. Samuel Haynes, of Masonville. In 1853 he commenced the practice of his profession, in Butler County, Kay. The next year he again studied with Dr. IHaynes. In 181i he located in Owensboro and remained till after the death ot his father in 1862, when he went to Hancock County. In 1870 lie abandoned his profession on account of ill health, and returned to Owensboro, and was unable to engage in any business for several years. Since 1881 he has been engaged in the grocery business in Owensboro. March 6, 1857, he married Mary E., 230 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. daughter of George and Mary J. Jones. They have had five chil dren. only three now living-Oscar E., Beatrice and Ida. Albert and John are deceased. Dr. Cottrell is a member of the Baptist church. J. P. Cox, M1. D., born near Bardstown, Ky., Nov. 16, 1831, is a son of J. B. and Lucinda (Phillips) Cox, both natives of Nelson County, Kv. In "Collins's History of Kentucky" is recorded the settlement of his grandfather, James Cox, at the head waters ot Cox Creek, Nelson County. His mother died in November. 1879; his father is still living, a member of his family. There was a family of twelve children, three dying in infancy. J. P. was the eldest son and was reared on Pa-farm in Nelson County, receiving his early education in the common schools. In 1858 he began the study of medicine with his cousin, 0. N. Cox, of Nelson County. lie attended medical lectures at Louisville, Ky. In 1S60 he went to Ohio and commenced the practice of his profession, being also engaged in farming a part of the time while there. In 187 he came to Daviess County and located at Newville, where he has won for himself an enviable name in his profession, his practice extending into Ohio and McLean counties. In March, 1863, he married Sallie I., daughter of Win. C. Rowan, of Ohio County, Ky. They have five children-William B., Lou Abbie, Anna, James Roy and Orion Noal. In 1877, Dr. Cox united with the Green River Baptist Church. L. A. 'rinnian, Grissom's Landing, where he has been for six or eight years. He came from Louisville. Ignaftius Guy Drury, M3. D., Knottsville, was born in Nelson County, Ky., Nov. 18, 1829. His father, Hillary Drury (deceased), was a native of St. Mary's County, Md., and came to Kentucky with his parents in 1807, and removed with his family to this county in 1830. Our subject was reared on the old homestead, about four miles southeast ot Knottsville, in this precinct, and educated at St. Mary's College in Marion County. He graduated from the Medical University at Louisville in 1862, and came to Knottsville the same year and formed a partnership with Dr. Will- iam B. Holmes, who was practicing here at that time. Dr. Holmes was also a graduate of the same college. -Ie died in 1867. A few years later Dr. Drury formed his present partnership with Dr. Thos. J. Byrne. In the fall of 1871 he went to New York City and attended the Bellevue Medical College and the College of Physicians and Surgeons. While there he also visited the various 231 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. hospitals, thus gaining much useful information. The Doctor was never married, but is supporting and educating two nieces and a nephew. J. TV. Ellis, X. D., was born in Daviess County, Ky., Dec. 30, 1847. Ills parents were Luther R. and Mary (Kallam) Ellis, na- tives of Kentucky. They had a family of two sons-W. T. Ellis, a lawyer of Owensboro, and J. W. When J. W. was seven or eight years old his parents died and he and his brother went to live with their grandfather, Hiram Kallam, a Methodist minister. J. W. remained with his grandfather and attended the Pleasant Val- ley Seminary until seventeen, when lie entered the Kentucky Uni- versitv at Harrisburg, and remained two terms. He then taught school at Whitesville, studying medicine with Drs. Hale and Mc- Kay fifteen months. He then entered tile Jefferson Medical Col- lege at Philadelphia, graduating in March, 1870. He then located in Masonville, where he has since practiced his profession. Dr. Ellis is a member of the McDowell Medical Association, and a leading physician and surgeon of the county. He is purely a self- madeplnan, as it was through his own exertions that he obtained an education. Dr. Ellis is a Mason and is a demnitted member of Hodges Lodge, Whitesville. He owns a fine farm of 325 acres, on the south side of the Hartford road, in Masonville. He decided to make it a stock farm, and has therefore purchased short-horn and Jersey cattle, and some fine horses and mules. Dr. Ellis's grand- father, Hiram Kallam, was a Colonel in the war of 1812, and his sword is still in the Masonic hall at Pleasant Valley. Politically, Dr. Ellis has always been a supporter of the Democratic party. He was married April 26, 1877, to Bettie Whipp, a native of Casey County, Ky., and a daughter of John W. and Isabella (Coffey) Whipp, natives of Kentucky. They have one son, Win. T., born Sept. 12, 1880; a daughter, Mary, born. Feb. 26, 1878, died Sept. 4, 1878. Dr. and Mrs. Ellis are members of the Union Christian church, Masonville. IL( C. Flemming, Delaware, Curdsville Precinct. W. Scott Gilmore, Sorghotown. Josiah Hale, Al. D., born Jan. 25, 1829, near Fordsville, Ohio Co., Ky., is a son of Caleb and Sallie (Huff) Hale, both born in Virginia, and married in Ohio County, Ky. His father died aged seventy-four, and his mother aged seventy. They had a family of four sons and seven daughters; four sons and five daughters now living. Josiah was the third son. His parents being in moderate 232 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. circumstances his early education was pursued in the schools of his county (Ohio), but he was ambitious, and by close study and perse- vering effort succeeded in making himself a fair scholar, and at the age of twenty, having chosen the profession of medicine, began his studies at home under the instructions of Dr. N. L. Lightfoot, a country practitioner, where he pursued his studies diligently for one year. He then Vent to Fordsville, Ky., and entered into a partnership with Dr. H. Wells, and practiced his profession for two years; then went to Louisville and became a pupil of Dr. D. W. Yandell, of that city, at the same time attending lectures at the Louisville University, where he graduated in 1S56. He now entered upon the practice of medicine in Hartford, Ky., continuing three years. Then wvent to New York, and attended a course of lectures at the New York University, also at the New York Ophthalmic Hospital. In 1860 he returned to Hartford, and resumed his practice there for two years, when he removed to Owensboro, Ky., where he practiced for nine years; then being deter- mined to stand among the first in his profession went again to New York and attended lectures at the Bellevue Hospital Medical Col- lege, and also took a course of private instruction at the Ophthalmic Hospital, under Prof. H. Knopp. He returned to Owensboro, where his success has fully repaid him for his long and persistent study. In his experience as a physician he hams had a large practice as surgeon, performing many difficult operations. Recently he has devoted himself more especially to the diseases of the eye, and surgical diseases of women, and has attained great distinction and a very large practice. In 1866 he became a member of the Ken- tucky State Medical Society, and in 1871 was elected Senior Vice- President of that body. le is a permanent member of the American Medical Association, a member of the McDowell Medical Society, of the Owensboro Medical Society, and a member of the Board of Medical Examiners for the Fifth District of Kentucky. He was a delegate to the International (Centennial) Medical Con- gress, at Philadelphia, in 1876. He was a delegate from the Tri- State Medical Society (Indiana, Kentucky and Illinois) in. 18S1, to the International Medical Congress that met in London, England; and during his stay in London took a course of instruction on the diseases of the eye at the Royal London Ophthalmic Hospital. He remained in Europe one summer, visiting the leading hospitals, museums and art galleries of London, England, Paris, France, and Edinburgh, Scotland, -returning to Owensboro in the fall of 1881. 233 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. He has written many valuable articles for the medical journals of this country, several of which have been republished both in this country and in Europe. He is a member of the Baptist church and a Freemason. Dr. Hale was married in 1853 to the daughter of J. W. Willis,- of Ohio County, Ky.; she died at Hartford in 1861, leaving one child-Mary, wife of J. A. Dean, attorney of Owens- boro. Dr. Hale was again married in 1873 to Miss E. McHenry, daughter of the Hon. J. H. McHenry, an ex-member of Congress and a noted lawyer of Owensboro, Ky. Dr. Hale has devoted him- self to his profession with an energy which has made him a success- ful physician and a useful man, his high sense of honor rendering him always regardful of the rights of others, and his urbane, kindly manner winning him the esteem of all. The Hale family were originally from England, and settled in Virginia at an early day, where the family is still represented, as well as in Maine, Massa- chusetts, Missouri, IIlinois and Kentucky. In politics Dr. Hale was first a Whigi, but since the war has been a Democrat. 0. 119 7e, Whitesville. Benjamin -. flarralso7n, Ml. D., son of Colonel S. C. Harralson, who was born in Harralson's Ferry (now Delaware), April 17, 1838. He lived on a farm till fifteen years of age, and then at- tended school at Calhoun. He afterward clerked in the drug store of HI. D. Jones, and in the meantime studied medicine under Drs. Bnllett Berry. He was Assistant Surgeon of the Eighth Ken- tucky Regiment during the late war. He attended Jefferson Med- ical College, Philadelphia, from which he graduated with high honors in 1865. I-le then returned to Delaware, where he has built up a large practice. Oct. 24, 1865, he married Miss M. Odon. To them have been born four children, three living-Gross, Gordon and Murray. Dr. Harralson is a member of the Christian church. He belongs to tile Masonic fraternity.. S. J. fIaeris, from Pennsylvania County, Va., has been prac- ticing at Philpot's Station since 1874 or 1875. Edwaird llawve8, Grissomn's Landing. After graduating he prac- ticed two years at Birk's City, and about five or six years he has been in Oakford Precinet. 0. B. ilayden. Owensboro. Office, east side of St. Ann Street, second door south of Main. up stairs. J. P. Ileavrin, M D., born in Anderson County, Ky., Nov. 24, 1849, is a son of Dr. James M. Heavrin, a native of the same county. He was educated at Rochester, Ky., Cromwell, Ky., and 234 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Morehead Seminary, Butler County, Ky. He read medicine with Dr. N. J. Rains, of Rosine, Ky., eighteen months. He took the first course of the Kentucky School of Medicine, at Louisville, in 1878-'9, and then located in Curdsville, where he has since been practicing, with the exception of one ternm spent in school in 1882, when he graduated. He was married in March, 1875, to Sarah E. Reynolds. They have had two children, only one living-Grace. Dr. Heavrin is a member of the McDowell Medical Association of Northern Kentucky, the Alumni Association, and the Masonic fraternity. James H. Hickman, Owensboro; east side of Frederica street, second south of Fifth. D. V: lligdon, Knottsville. Burr H. Hobbs, M. D., born July 29, 1824, in Nelson County, Ky., is a son of Win. A. and Nancy (May) Hobbs, both natives of Nelson County. Dr. Hobbs's grandfathers were among the first settlers of the State from Virginia. Dr. Hobbs was reared in Nel- son County and began the study of medicine there; graduated from the Transylvania University of Lexington, Ky., in 1819, the oldest medical college of the West. He went to Arkansas, where he be- gan the practice of medicine, and remained there till the breaking out of the war. He was a member of the Little Rock Convention that seceded the State of Arkansas from the Union, in the spring of 1861. He afterward entered the Southern army as surgeon and remained till the close of the war. After the close of the war he returned to Kentucky and settled in Owensboro, where he has since been engaged in the practice of medicine. He is a member of the McDowell Medical Society; was one of the original mem- bers. He has also been connected with the Owensboro Medical Society since its organization, and is now President of the society. He has been a Mason for thirty-five years. Has been Master of the lodge several times. He was married in 1852 to Rachel M. Cox, daughter of Gabriel Cox, of Mt. Washington, Btllitt County, Ky. They have three children-Arthur G. Hobbs, M. D., Professor of the Medical College of Atlanta, Ga.; Nannie, wife of P. F. Smith, of Newnan, Ga., and Fannie, residing at home. Win. E. olmoes, M. D., was born Aug. 31, 1S56, son of J. M. and Elizabeth Holmes; was educated in Daviess County and at South Carrolton, Multlenberg County; began reading medicine in 1876 with Dr. J. W. Ellis, of Masonville. He attended medical lectnres at Jefferson College at Philadelphia, Penn,, and graduated 235 HISTORY OF' DAVIESS COUNTV. from this institution in 1879. He began practice immediately afterward in Murray Precinct, and has been remarkably successful in his practice. L E. Johnson, Curdsville. Phillp T. Johnson, X, D. wvas born in Owensboro, Aug. 1, 1851 He attended the commton schools of his native city until seventeen years of age, then went to the Hampden-Sidney College, Prince Edward County, Vs.. where he graduated in 1870, at the early age of nineteen. He then returned to Owensboro and read medicine with Drs. Todd and Scott two years; then entered the Hospital College of Medicine, at Louisville, Ky., where he graduated in 1875. He immediately comminenced the practice of his profession in Owensboro, and Dec. 27. of the same year, was married to Miss Alice V. Hathaway, a native of Owensboro, and daughter of E. A. and Sallie Shelby (Todd) Hathaway. The latter was a great-grand- daugalter of Governor Isaac Shelby, first Governor of Kentucky; also a granddaughter of the renowned Colonel Charles S. Todd, a sketch of whom is given in the chapter on the officials of the county. Dr. Johnson's father was the Hon. James L. Johnson, an account of whom is given in the same chapter. After his marriage the Doctor settled on the old homestead in Owensboro, where he has since resided. He is a member of the Kentucky State Medical Society, and of the McDowell Medical Society. Hie has a most magnificent library in all respects, besides a number of valuable relics and articles of virtu. His remarkable autographic alburn is described in the literary chapter. Mrs. Johnson is a inemnber of the Fourth Presbyterian Clhurch. They have two children-Jamns L., born Daec. 22, 1876, and Harriet T., born March 9, 1S7S. R. Ca KIennee, Birk's City. John F. if'inbley, Xl D., is a native of Muhlenberg County. His grandffather on his father's side wvas born in Holland; emigrated to the United States previous to the Revolutionary var; served in that struggle and came at an early date to Kentucky. He settled on Corn Island below Louisville, and assisted in raising the first corn ever produced in Kentucky. One of his children was Frank E. Kimnbley, who moved fromn L'uisville to Muhlenberg County in 1792. lie mnarried Elizzbetlh Valandingliam, a descendant of a Virginia family, by whon lie had six children. The youngest was John F. Kimnbley, born Sept. 24, 1823. At the age of twenty-one, in Miuhlenberg County, he began the study of medicine, subge- 236 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. quently attending a course of lectures in St. Louis, and in 1849 graduated from the Jefferson Medical College, of Philadelphia. He had located in Daviess County in 1847, and after his gradua- tion returned to the same locality, practicing medicine until the late war. The Doctor took strong grounds for the Union. He volunteered his services, and in 1861 was appointed surgeon of the Eleventh Kentucky Infantry, serving three years and four months. He held, at various times, staff, brigade, division and corps positions in the armies of the Cumberland, Ohio and Ten- nessee, and was one of the chief surgical operators on every battle- field of his command, receiving always the commendation of his superiors. He served as Medical Director of the cavalry corps of Brigadier-General Sturges. General order No. 23, relieving Sur. geon Kimbley from the duty of Medical Director, was as follows: HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY CORPS, PARIS, Ky., April 9, 1864. 1 The Eleventh Regiment Kentucky Volunteer infantry having been permanently detached from this command, and J. F. Kimbley being surgeon of that regiment, he is hereby relieved from duty as Medical Director of the cavalry corps and wvill report to his regiment commander for duty. The General commanding can not, lowever, thus summarily break his official connection with Surgeon J. F. Kimbley without expressing his deep regret for the necessity which compels him to lose from his staff so estimable a gentleman, and one who has administered the medical department with so much energy, zeal and ability. By order of BRIGADIER-GENER.A, STURGES. On his return to Daviess County, Dr. Kimbley resumed the practice of medicine. Ile has been married three times and has two children. The Doctor was a slave-holder at the breaking out of the war, and lost heavily by the emancipation of the slaves. He earnestly supported every measure for crushing out the rebellion, and adopted Republican principles during the struggle. His political opinions still place him in the Republican ranks, a position lhe has chosen, not so much from partisan feeling as that lhe considers in thus acting he is best discharging his duty. to his country as a patriot. James S. and Wim. R. Knox, Whitesville. Thomas E. Lamping, X. D., born Sept. 22, 1850, in Grays- ville, Monroe Co., O., is a son of Frederick A. and Cassandra (French) 237 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTIY. Lamping, of Washington County, Ohio, the former a native of Germany, and the latter a descendant of the old Quakers of Ohio. Thomas E. received his literary education principally at Bethany, W. Va. He commenced his medical studies with Dr. George Baird, of Wheeling, W. Va., in 1870. In the spring 'of 1871 he attended a series of lectures at Long Island Hospital, Brooklyn, and in the fall of 1872 went to Cincinnati and attended lectures at the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery, and graduated from there in February, 1873. The following March he came to Owensboro. In the spring of 1882 he was elected City Physician. June 15, 1882, he formed a partnership with J. A. Sieber. He is a member of the Owensboro and McDowell medical societies. He was married April 15, 1874, in Henderson, Ky., to Lucy Brush, daughter of the late Rev. Geo. W. Brush, one of the oldest preach- ers in Kentucky, and a member of the Louisville Conference. They have one son-Frederick A. C. J. Lockha7t, Z. D., was born in Daviess Connty, Ky., Sept. 6, 1851. He was reared and received his early education in this county. He commenced the study of medicine with his father and attended the Louisville Medical College from 1874-"76. He com- menced the practice of his profession in March, 1876, and is now located eight miles east of Owensboro. He has built up a good practice and is a promising young physician of Daviess County. He was married in 1881, to Miss Hannah Craig, a native of Daviess County, born March, 1862. They have one child-Robert C., born Oct. 2, 1882. Simon X. Lockhart ilL D., was born in Daviess County, Ky., Aug. 26, 1854. His early education was received in the schools of Owensboro. He studied medicine with his father and brother, and attended the Louisville Medical University two terms. He commenced the practice of medicine in March, 1878, and is now located at the forks of the Hardinsburg and Yelvington roads, four miles east of Owensboro. lie is a member of the McDowell Medical Association. Ilis parents, Dr. William and Mary (Sub- lett) Lockhart, are natives of Indiana and Logan County, Ky., respectively, his father born in 1816, and his mother in 1821. They have three children-Laura C., Charles J. and Simon M. His father came to Kentucky when eight years of age, and was educa- ted in this State. He has practiced medicine in Daviess County over forty years. Eclward X. luckett, Owensboro; residence, north side of Fourth, 238 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTIY. second west of Clay street. Dr. Luckett is a well-known, promi- nent physician; once President of the Green River Medical As- sociation, and has often had other responsible positions. Dr. lcliturtry, is in Vanover Precinct, near the narrows bridge. .Henry Watson Megill, Owensboro, druggists. ilardin K. Osburn, M. D., son of Jamies S. Orsburn, was born in Webster (then'Henderson) County, IKy., Oct. 18, 1857. He was reared on a farm, and educated in the Morganfield Col- legiate Institute, of Union County, Ky. He commenced the study of medicine when twenty years of age, and graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Baltimore, Md., in. March, 1880. Hle then came to West Louisville, and commenced the practice of his profession in partnership with Drs. Orsburn Blandford. He is a member of the McDowell Society of Second Kentucky Congressional District. V. Orsburn, X. D., son of James S. Orsbuti, was born in Webster (then Henderson) County, Ky., March 20, 1846. His father was also a native of Henderson County, born Aug. 17, 1819. He was educated in Princeton College, Ky., and in the medical department of the Louisville !University, from which he graduated in 1874. He commenced the study of medicine prior to his entering the college, having practiced since 1869. In 1875 he formed a partnership with T. W. Blandford. They have a large practice in West Louisville and vicinity. Dr. Orsburn was mar- ried Oct. 24, 1869, to Mrs. Mary J. Lewis, of McLean County, daughter of J. J. Rust. Mason C. Pate, Whitesville. Dr. RInehart, Lewis Station. XT. I Rose, physician and Postmaster, Sorghotown. J. D. Russell, Yelvington. Has been there about five years. John A. Sieber, A. D., born in Evansville, Ind., Sept. 4, 1853, is a son of John and Catherine (Krapf) Sieber, natives of Bavaria, Germany. Ile was educated in the public schools, and Trinity Catholic School of Evansville, graduating from the latter in 1867. He was then clerk and bookkeeper in a large pork establishment. Oct. 15, 1874, he commenced the study of medicine with J. W. Irwin, M. D. le took his first course of lectures at the Evans- ville Medical College in the fall of 1876, and graduated in the spring of 1879. While in college he acted as prescription clerk in the city free dispensary thirty months; also acted as prosector for Edwin Walker, Professor of Anatomy. He commenced the prac- 239 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. tice of his profession in Evansville in 1878-'9. In the spring of 1880 he went to Dubois County, Ind., on account of his health; remained there two years. In June, 1882, he came to Owensboro, and formed a partnership with Thomas E. Lamping. He is a member of the DuBois County, Ind, the Owensboro and McDow- ell medical societies. He was married July 15, 1880, to Susie, daughter of John Herman, of Evansville, Ind. They have one san-Arthur John Henry. Di. William J. Sprinrgefci, Vanover Precinct, was born in Web- ster (then Hopkins) County, Jan. 22, 1843, and is a son of John Springfield, a native of Virginia, who came to Kentucky in 1839. The Doctor was brought up on a farm, and educated in the com- mon schools. He graduated from the Cincinnati Medical College in June, 1874, and located for the practice of medicine in West Louisville. the same year. In 1875 he removed to his farm in this precinct, where he still lives, and has built up a large practice. He also carries on farming and stock-raising. He was married in 1875, to Mrs. Rafferty, daughter of the late Lewis I. Burns, of his county. They had two children, one living-Aurelia. Mrs. Springfield died June 20, 1880, and March 10, 188 1, the Doctor married Miss Belle Aull, daughter of Robert P. Aull, deceased. They have one child-Ansel. The Doctor owns 106k acres in his farm, and an undivided one third of seventy-two acres in another tract. Charles Tyler Thomnas, Ml. D., born in Owensboro, Oct. 19, 1851; attended the Hospital College of Medicine at Louisville in 1875-'6, and graduated from Evansville Medical College in Feb- ruary, 1878. He began the practice of medicine in the spring of 18,8, in Murray Precinct. Dr. Charles H. Todd, the subject of this sketch, is the young- est child of Colonel Charles S. Todd, who was chief of staff for General Harrison in the war of 1812, minister to South America under Mr. Adams in 1826, and minister to Russia under General Harrison in 1840. He is a grandson of Judge Thomas Todd, of the Supreme Court of the United States, and the youngest grand- child of Governor Isaac Shelbv. Dr. Todd was born in Shelby County, Nov. 6, 183S, and edu- cated at Frankfort under the distinguished tutor, B. B. Sayre, with whom he remained five years. In 1858 he removed to New Orleans, where he was a resident student for more than twelve months in the Charity Hospital, and 240 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. graduated at the University of Louisiana in 1861. He was selected by the faculty of Louisiana from a graduating class of 127, for the position of assistant physician of the insane asylum at Bayou Sara, La. He was examined for and received his degree two months before the end of the term, and immediately. assumed the position to which he had been elected, and which he filled for eight months. At the breaking out of the war he resigned his position in the asylum, and went to Virginia as assistant surgeon of the Sixth Louisiana Regiment. In 1862 he was promoted to the position of regimental surgeon of that regiment, Hay's brigade, Stonewall Jackson's division of General Lee's army, in which active field service hle remained until the final surrender of his command at Appomattox Court-House. On the 15th of February, 1865, Dr. Todd was married to Rosa, the youngest daughter of Mr. Win. M. Burwell, of Liberty, Bed- ford Co., Va. At the close of the war, in common with the majority of the de- fenders of the lost cause, Dr. Todd found himself without means, and with gloomy prospects for the future, and, as his father and mother were then residing in Owensboro, he determined to visit that place before selecting a location. Owing to scarcity of money, he made the trip from Lynchburg, Va., to Owensboro, Ky.,-a distance of six hundred miles,-on horseback. The season was early spring, and the roads and weather in the worst condition, and the unsettled state of the country through which he passed added danger to the discomfort of the journey; but after a tedious ride of twenty-two days he found him- self at Owensboro, unharmed except by fatigue. Dr. Todd located in Owensboro, September, 1865, and entered at once upon the duties of his profession, and his practice as a physi- cian has been large and lucrative, and he enjoys the confidence of the community, which has been evidenced by the positions of great honor and responsibility to which he has been called by the citizens. Trustee of the Owensboro City Schools for years, Vice-Presi- dent for two years, and President for seven years of the Daviess County Agricultural Fair Company, which position be filled with honor to himself and satisfaction to his constituents, and with great advantage to' the institutions which he served. While an active worker in matters of general interest Dr. Todd 16 241 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. kept pace with the progress of his chosen profession, and was elected in 1S76 Vice-President of the Kentucky State Medical So- ciety at Hopkinsville, and in 1878 was elected President of the society at Frankfort. Dr. Todd succeeded as President Dr. L. P. Yandell, of Louisville, one of the oldest, most learned and accomplished physicians and surgeons in the Western country. This distinction, in view of the comparative youth of Dr. Todd, was very great, but, in view of his experience and acquiremnents, not more than he merited. Dr. Todd was the only man who ever held both positions in the Ken- tucky State Medical Society, and was the first young man ever elected president, and his election had one other peculiar feature: The rule was to elect the oldest practitioner which the society would chance to meet, and Dr. Todd's election was the first de- parture from that established rule. A singular line of coincidences seems to mark this important period of his life. He was elected at Frankfort, where he was eda- cated, and to which place he had never before returned, and pre- sided at Danville, where his father and mother were born, and on the occasion of the erection by the Kentucky State Medical Society of a monument to his uncle, Dr. Ephraim McDowell, the great and world-renowned. ovariotomist. Samuel S. WVatk,.ns, X; D., one of the first members of the medical profession of Daviess County, has been a resident of Owens- boro"since 1855. His ancestors were in Virginia, early in the history of that colony. Three brothers emigrated from England, one settling in Maryland, another in Virginia, and a third in North Carolina. From the Virginia branch is Dr. Watkins descended. The home of the family in Virginia was Albemarle County. Dr. Wat kins is the son of Absalom Watkins. His mother's maiden name was Maria _McClanahan. His father emigrated from Virginia to Kentuckv about 1816, when twenty years of age. He settled first in Bourbon County, and about 1818 was married, and soon after- removed to Breckenridge County. Absalom Watkins was here a man of prominence and influence, twice a Representative in the Legislature from the county of Breckenridge, and once in the Sen- ate of Kentucky. He died in Owensboro in 1865. Samuel S. Watkins, the third in a family of seven children, was born in Breckenridge County, Ky., the fourth of December, 1824. At the age of ten his father sent him to a seminary at Hardinsburg. Re- maining here three years, he attended Mount Merino, a Catholic 242 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. school in Breckenridge County. At eighteen he began the study of medicine at Hardinsburg, with Drs. Hlardin and Thomas. He attended lectures in the Louisville University in the winter of 1844'45, and began practice in Hardinsburg in 1845. In 1846 he was married to Miss Elizabeth Thomas, (laughter of Dr. J. H. Thomas, with whom he was there en-gaged in the practice of medicine. Dr. Watkins moved to Texas in 1848, where MArs. Watkins died, in 1852, and in 1854 lie returned to Kentucky, spend- ing the following year in the University at Louisville. In May, 1855, the Doctor returned to Owensboro, having been married the April preceding, to Susan M. Thomas, of Breckenrige County, a sister of his former wife. Ile at once gained a good practice, and main- tains a leading rank in his profession at the present time. His reputation as a skillful practitioner is merited by the marked suc- cess that has attended his efforts. Seven of his nine children are living. In politics Dr. Watkins was formerly a Whim and is now a Democrat, though lie mingles but little in political affairs, except to discharge his duties at the polls when he deems it necessary as a citizen. He is a Methodist in his religious convictions. As a citizen and physician Dr. Watkins enjoys the esteem and confidence of the people of Daviess County in a high degree. Nathan H. Wilkinson, M. D., was born Aug. 29, 1854, in Marion County, Ky., and is a son of George II. and Elizabeth (Gertin) Wilkinson; his father a native of Virginia and his mother of Marion County, Ky. His mother died in 1863; his father resides on a farm near Owensboro. Nathan H. is the eldestof three sons, his brothers being James Wallace and George B. He came to Owensboro when fourteen years of age, and from that time has worked to acquire the knowledge of medicine. He went to school during the winter and worked with his father at the carpenter's trade during the summer, until he was competent to teach. After teaching several terms lie was employed in a dry-goods store as clerk, and remained there two years. During this time, June 1, 1875, lie was married to Anna B., daughter of Timothy Burgess, and a native of Concordia, Ky. Having earned a sufficient amount from his labors, and having paid considerable attention to the study in private, he entered the office of Dr. Stewart, a former prac- titioner of Owensboro, and remained with him a year. After Dr. Stewart's removal to Frankfort he studied with Dr. Lamping a year. He then attended the Medical University at Louisville five months, and finally graduated from the Cincinnati College of 243 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Physicians and Surgeons in 1881, and shortly after began the prac- tice of his profession in Owensboro. From 1877-'81 he traded largely in stock, shipping to all markets, which resulted very profit- ably. He owns city property in Owensboro to the amount of 10,000, and two farms in Kentucky and one in Missouri. Dr. and Mrs. Wilkinson have two children-Alexander Huston, born March 18, 1880, and Willa Belle, born Sept. 19, 1882. A. C. Wood, M. D., is one of the most prominent members of the medical profession of Owensboro. The Doctor came here in 1852, a young man, and engaged at once in the practice of medi- cine. His affable manner and thorough medical education was soon recognized in the community, and lhe soon took rank among the leading practitioners of Daviess County. He was at one time President of the Green River Medical Society, filling the office with ability. In April, 1853, Dr. Wood was married to Miss Mary F. White, daughter of E. T. White, Esq. Mrs. Wood is a native of Virginia and came with her parents to Owensboro when about four years of age. The Doctor and wife are the parents of but one child, Edward W., who was born at Owen sboro in August, 1854. Edward was educated at the Michigan State University, Ann Arbor, graduating in 1873. He is now one of the rising young busi- ness men of this city and a member of the firm of Turpin Wood. This firm conducts one of the heaviest tobacco trades in Owensboro. During the late war Doctor Wood was an uncompromising Union man, and in opposition to public sentiment expressed his views plainly and avowed his faith in the ultimate triumph of the Union arms. After the wvar, when in 1866 the question of a separation of the Presbyterian church between the North and South came tip, Doctor Wood was the only officer in his church who voted to send delegates to the General Assembly. The Doctor and Mrs. Wood have long been active and consistent members of the Pres- byterian church in Owensboro. 244 CHAPTER XI. GEOLOGY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. PHYSICAL FEATURES. The extreme length of the county from east to west is about thirty-five miles; average length, twenty-six miles; average width north to south, sixteen miles; containing about 122 square miles, or 280,000 acres. The county seat is on the northern border and on the Ohio River, equi-distant between the upper and lower cor- ners of the county, and although on the northern border, is within four or five miles of the geographical center of the county, owing to a great Southern bend in the Ohio River. Almost every variety of soil is embraced in the county, from third to first rate, the greater portion being or approaching the first quality of farming land. One half the area is river bottom and level land. Many thousand acres of rich, black land lie so level as to badly need ditching, much of the best lands in the county in various localities being of this character. The greater portion of the broken or hilly land lies along the eastern border of the county. Much of the broken land is rich, and but a small portion too steep for cultivation. The Buzzard Roost Hills, west of Owens- boro, covering some 5,000 acres, is all farming land of the first or- der, a small portion only being too steep for the plow. Sone of the best farms in the county are on and among these hills. A strata of coal over five feet thick underlies this portion of the county. The timber consists of yellow poplar, black walnut, honey locust, black locust, mulberry, red and white oak, black ash, sugar tree, birch, etc., etc. Another broken or hilly portion of the county is embraced in Vanover and Cardsville precincts, some twelve to eighteen miles southwest of Owensboro. But a small portion of this land can be classed as poor, and all is covered with excellent timber-poplar, white, red and black oak, hickory, dogwood, etc., and some of the hills in this section with sugar-tree and beech. The poorer the hills the better the white oak. Coal of good quality and in work- able veins, or strata, is found under all the hilly portions of the (245) HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. county. The class of soil denominated third rate is found along some of our creek bottoms, being too low, and frequently covered by the overflowing of the creeks and back water from Green River. Mach of this low land, however, is covered with the forest oak, hickory and gum timber. . RIVERS AND CREEKS. The Ohio River for thirty miles is the northern boundary. Green River touches the county for about twenty miles on the west. and Blackford Creek about twelve miles on the east. The other prin- cipal streams are North and South Panther creeks. North Panther has its rise in Hancock County; South Panther, the larger of the two, in Breckenridce County. They unite about six miles south of Owensboro, imaking, Main Panther Creek, which winds and crooks nearly through the middle of the western half of the county, and unites with Green River at the town of Curdsville, about four- teen miles soutbwest ot Owensboro. The other creeks are Pup Creek, rising in the east end of the county, and flowing north- west into the Ohio 'River. Yellow Creek is a stream of limited strength which flows north to the Ohio River, two miles below Pup Creek. South Rhodes Creek rises in McLean County, flows north into Panther Creek, enteringlo it six miles due south of Owens- boro. Knob Lick flows north into Panther Creek, two miles above the mouth of Panther. Delaware rises in McLean County, flows northwest, and enters Green River half a mile below the village of Delaware. North Rhodes Creek has its head in the Roost Hills, flows west into Green River, which it enters ten miles west of Owensboro. THE SOIL. The soil of Daviess County is a strong clay and rich loam, pecul- iarly adapted to the raising of tobacco, and is, next to Christian the most extensive tobacco-growing county in the State. A specimen of one of the best soils in the county was taken in 1856 from the slope of a ridge on Henry Dugan's land in the forks of Panther, which had never been cultivated, near the coal-measure limestone, and analyzed under the -supervision of David Dale Owen, the State Geologist. The primitive forest growth at the place was hard maple (sugar-tree), yellow poplar, black oak, hick- ory, yellow sweet grim, black gum, elm, beech and black walnut. 246 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. 247 The dried soil was of a mouse color. Washed with water, it left 82.3 per cent. of sand, etc., of which all but 1.6 per cent. was fine enough to pass through the finest bolting-cloth. This portion con- sisted principally of rounded ferruginous particles, with a few grains of' hyaline quartz, and of a black substance like scoria. One thousand grains of the air-dried soil, digested for a month in water containino' carbonic acid, gave up to it nearly four and a half grains of brownish-gray extract, dried at 212 F., which had. the following composition, viz: UN 5INS. OOrganic and volatile matt er ......................... ..................... 1.340 Alumina, oxide of iron and phosphate. 21 Carbonate of limne................ .................................... 1.660 Ma1,nesia ...........................6... ............................... . 266 Brown oxide of maiganese. . 497 Sulphuric acid..... ;188 Potash ........................................ ......................... .142 Soda ...................... ................ .......................... . 023 Silica........................................................... ....... . 099 4.433 The'air-dried soil lost 4.20 per cent. of m oisture at 400, F., dried at which temperature it had the following composition: GRAINS. Organic and volatile matters............................................... 6.972 Alumina ......... 1.360 Oxide of iron ............. 1.660 Carbonate of lime ............. 536 Magnesia .............................. .358 Brown oxide of manganese .. .................... 218 Phosphoric acid ........... . 122 Sulphuric acid ........... 103 Potash ............ .......... .13 Sola. ... ........................... 029 Sand and insoluble silicates and loss ..89.394 100.000 A specimen from the same farm, but which had been in cultiva- tion four years, in tobacco, wheat, etc., yielded, on analysis, the following results: Color of the dried soil a little lighter than that of the preceding, and of a slight yellowish tint. Washed with water it left 80.2 per cent. of sand, etc., of which all but 1.4 per cent. was fine enough to pass tlhroughlrthe finest bolting-cloth; this portion was principally small, rounded, ferrnginous particles with .a few quartzose. 248 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNT. One thousand grains of the air-dried soil, digested for a month in water containing carbonic acid, gave up more than three and a half grains of light brownish-gray extract which had the following composition: GRAINS. Organic and volatile matters .............................. 800 Alumina, oxide of iron and phosphates .............................. 168 Carbonate of lime.....................................................1.793 Magnesia .............................. .233 Brown oxide of manganese.............................. 367 Sulphuric acid.............................. 090 Potash .............................. .083 Soda... ................................... .042 Silica ................................ ............... ........... .139 3.720 The air-dried soil'lost :2.88 per cent. of moisture at 404)0 F., dried at which temperature it has the following composition: GRAINS. Organic and volatile matters...........................................6.301 Alumina ............................................................... 1.776 Oxide of iron ............ 2.380 Carbonate of lime.................... .............416 Magnesia ............... ........................ ....................... 341 Brown oxide of manganese .............................................. . 036 Phosphoric acid.......................................................151 Sulphuric acid............................................................096 Potash .............................. . 158 Soda ....................0.................................. ..... . 027 Sand and insoluble silicates .89.236 100.919 Sub-soil from the same field gave the following characters: Color of the dried sub-soil dirty gray-buff; much lighter than that of the preceding soil. Washed with lwater this sub-soil left 75.9 per cent. of sand, etc., of which all but 0.9 per cent. was fine enough to pass through the finest bolting-cloth. This portion consisted of rounded ferruginous and quartzose particles, with a few of a dark-colored substance like scoria. One thousand grains of the air-dried sub-soil, digested for a month in water charged with carbonic acid, gave up more than a grain and a half of brownish-gray extract, which ihad the follow- ing composition, viz.: HISTORY OF DAVIESS CorNrY. 249 GRAINS. Organic and volatile matters .............................. 0.340 Alumina, oxide of iron and phosphates .068 Carbonate of lime .496 Magnesia.................................................................. 106 Brown oxide of manganese .259 Sulphuric acid........ .... .......113 Potash .................................................................... 073 Soda................... ........... .................................... 001 Silica .............................. 149 1.587 The air-dried sub-soil lost 2.40 per cent. of moisture at 400 0 F., and thus dried had the following composition: GRAPINS. Organic and volatile matters .2.868 Alumina................................................................ 1.756 Oxide of iron.2.520 Carbonate of lime .......................... .038 Magnesia............................................................. .156 Brown oxide of manganese............................................ .17- Phosphoric acid .......................... .177 Sulphuric acid .......................... .......................... 068 Potash... ... ....... .097 Soda ............ ................................................... .015 Sand and insoluble silicates ............................................ 92.276 100.145 The soil of the field which has been in cultivation only four years in tobacco and wheat shows a sensible diminution of organic matters, lime, magnesia, suilphuric and phosphoric acids, and the alkalies; is of a slightly lighter color than the virgin soil, gives less soluble extract to the water containing carbonic acid (representing atmospheric water), and holds less of hydrometric moisture; moreover, it contains a somewhat larger proportion of sand and in- soluble silicates. The sub-soil of the old field is not as rich as the original surface soil. In the chemical report accompanying the State Geological Report of 187T, the following 'analyses of Soils from this county are given: Virgin soil from a hill-top on thefarm of H. Riley, on the 0. N. Railroad, about fifteen miles from Owensboro, was of a light gray-brown color, contained no gravel, and the bolting-cloth sieve separated from its silicious residue a considerable quantity of fine, rounded quartz grains, both translucent and opaque. About 86J E:HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. per cent. of it was sand and insoluble silicates, 6 per cent oxides of alumina, iron and manganese, and 5j organic and volatile matters. Surface soil from an old field sixty-five years in cultivation, in -corn and tobacco principally, now overgrown with sassafras, in the samne locality as the preceding was of a lighter and more yellow- ish light gray-brown color, containing no gravel, and the silicions residue contained very few small quartz grains. The sand and insoluble silicates constituted 88R per cent. of it, the oxides of alumina, iron-and manganese '7 per cent., and the organic and volatile matters 3 per cent. The sub-soil to the last was of a brownish-yellow ocher color, contained no gravel and a very few fine quartz grains. Of sand and insoluble silicates there was 85! per cent.; of the oxides of alumina, iron and manganese, 10, and of organic and volatile, 21. Upland virgin soil from the farm of Rev. N. Hopkins, Crow's Station, from the coal measures, was of a brownish utnber- gray color, and contained neither gravel nor fine quartz grains. Eighty-six and a half per cent. of it was sand and insoluble silicates, 57 organic and volatile matters, and 5- oxides of alumina, iron and manganese. The soil from an old field in the same vicinity, forty years in cultivation, where the substratum is sandstone, was of a dirty buff color, had no gravel or fine silicious sand, had 91 per cent. of other sand and insoluble silicates, 5j per cent. of the alumina, iron and manganese oxides, and a little over 21 per cent. of organic and volatile matters. The sub-soil was of a brownish orange-buff color, had no gravel or fine quartzose sand, had 81 per cent. of other sand and insoluble silicates, 13 per cent. of the alumina, iron and manganese oxides, and a little over three per cent. of organic and volatile matters. The comparative analyses of these soils show the usual influence of continued exhaustive culture in the diminution of some of their essential mineral ingredients. The soils are of full average natural fertility; the sub-soils would doubtless benefit the surface if grad- ually brought tip in the cultivation, and organic matters supplied by the atneliorating influence of clover and other green crops wholly or partly plowed in. A considerable reserve of the alkalies is seen to be present in the insoluble silicates, which will add greatly to the durability of the soil; but, doubtless, the application of available phosphates, and the use of wood ashes, would be beneficial in increasing the productiveness of the old field soils. a250 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. A specimen from a point on the Henderson road one and a half miles from Green River, belonging to the quarternary formation overlying the coal measures, and where the native trees wvere white oak, poplar, hickory, etc., and the ground devoted to tobacco, yielded the following results: Color of the dried soil, brownish gray; seventy-fonr per cent. fine sand, of a dirty buff color, of which twenty-four per cent. was as coarse as bar sand, composed of rounded quartz grains, clear yellow and reddish. One thousand grains of the air-dried soil gave tup. when digested in carbonated water for a month, about three and a half grains of brown solid extract, dried at 2120, which consisted mostly of organic and vola- tile matters, with traces of alumina, iron, the usual phosphates, lime, manganese oxide, magnesia, sulphulric acid, potash, soda and silica. The air-dried soil lost only 1.62 per cent. of moisture at 3650, and dried at this temperature it gave, in 100 parts, 92 of silica, 3- organic and volatile, 2 each of alumina and iron oxide, and traces of brown oxide of manganese, lime, carbonate, magne-- sia, phosphoric and sulphuric acids, potash and soda. This soil, which contains so large a proportion of silicious mat- ter, and but a moderate quantity of organic substances, potash and phosphoric acid, has been known to support a very luxuriant growth of tobacco, probably because so much of its nutritious in- gredients were in the soluble condition, as is proved by the large relative proportion of solid extract given by it on digestion in the water containing carbonic acid. This circumstances how- ever, while it increases its present fertility, hastens the process of exhaustion, under the drain of large herbaceous crops carried off the ground, without any return being made to it in the form of ma- nures. The rapidity with which the tobacco plant robs the soil of its richness is explained by the fact that about one fourth of the weight of the dried plant is composed of the mineral matters es- sential to vegetable growth, especially potash, lime, magnesia, soda, sulphuric acid, phosphoric acid, etc. COAL. There are probably not less than 10,000 acres of coal in the hill strata of Daviess County, and the strata vary in thickness fromn a few inches to five feet, yielding coal of nearly all qualities. Bon Harbor.-Coal mines vere opened here as early as 1825, the veins about five feet in thickness. There is no place where No. 11 coal is so easily identified by paleontological observations. The 251 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. coal, about five feet thick, has an occasional clay parting, or is sep- arated by a thin layer of sulphuret of iron and charcoal. It is topped by the black, shabby shales, with great abundance of shells and some remains of fishes; and above it has a soft, calcareous rock, also full of beautifully preserved shells, all species character- istic of this coal. Near Curdsville, opposite this place, on Green River, in Henderson County, No. 11 coal has been worked, and is here called Cook's upper coal. The coal, four feet thick, has a clay parting; its black shales are full of shells, as at Bon Harbor, and it is covered by two beds of limestone, separated by a bed of coal, dirt and fire clay, six inches thick. The inferior bed of lime- stone is full of shells, but the superior one is black, and without remains of fossils. The coal from Wolf Hill, about ten miles 'southeast of Owens- boro, as analyzed by the State chemist about twenty-seven years ago, proved to be unfavorable to the production of rich gas or- much oily matter. The sulphur in its composition is eompamra- tively small. This coal has a re markably pure appearance, is deep black and glossy, with some fibrous coal between the layers; but there is no appearance of pyrites and other impurities, exeept some incrustation of lime sulphate in the joints. iFeated over a spirit lamp, it swells up a little, but does not ,igglutinate. Specific grav- ity 1.275. Only two per cent of it is ashes. " Triplett's'" coal, four miles southeast of Owensboro, is glossy, pitch black, pretty firm, and seemingly pretty free from pyrites; a little sulphate of lime in the joints; not much fibrous coal be-- tween the layers. Over the spirit lamp it softens, swells up and agglutinates; burns with a smoky flame, and leaves a bright, cellu-- lar coke. It is probably a good coking coal. Tile vein is twenty- four inches in thickness. The proximate analysis of this coal yields 6- per cent. of moist- ure, 36 of volatile combustible matters, 511 carbon in the coke, and 6 of purple-gray ashes. The ashes is - silica, i alumina and oxide of iron, and the rest lime, magnesia, etc. The ultimate analysis (specimen dried at 212 ) yields carbon 71 per cent.. hy- drogen 5, sulphur 2, oxygen, nitrogen and 1 )ss 15, and ashes 7. Cannel coal exists on the " 'Jason" lands, or Spice Ridge, above the beds seen on Puppy Creek, and is probably the equiva- lent of a shale bed, into which openings have been made on the farm of Mrs. Bell, near the Yelvington and Owensboro road. At Spice Ridge the opening presents the following section: 252 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. HEIGHT THICKNESS. Ft. In. In. Slaty cannel coal ........................... 1 10 4 Blackish-gray argillaceous shales ....................... .. 1 6 7 Firm blocks of cannel coal . ................. 11 6 Clay shale.......................... 5 5 Water line in pit.......................... O O Under the water the coal is said to be thicker than above it. By sounding the pit appears to have been sunk two feet ten inches below the water lime now in it; the soundings show fire or under elay at the bottom. The physical appearance of the upper four inches is very like the coal of the Breckenridge mine. Near the spring at Mrs. Bell's farm a pit has been sunk eighteen feet deep, which consists of fourteen feet of surface clay, two feet of shale and two feet of under clay, similar to the under clay of coal. On. a more elevated part of the same point a pit has been sunk into the same bed, throngh fifteen feet of surface clay and five feet of soft sandstone, there reaching water. From the shales raised from below the water lime, fragments of fish were obtained, broken and scattered in the shales; no coal was seen, nor the appearance of coal. The coal has thinned out and disappeared. The distance between the Spice ridge and Mrs. Bell's is about two miles in a northwesterly direction, and nearly parallel with the course of the Oh1io River. From the Hawesville mines to the locality of Mrs. Bell's there appears to be a general thinning of all the beds composing the Hawesville section. On Puppy Creek the first sandstone over the Hawes coal has diminished in thickness from eighty-five to thirty- three feet. It would be interesting to science] to determine this precisely. If established it would bring the Hawes coal that much nearer the surface than it has been supposed to be, and thus make the knowledge of the position of that coal of the greatest practi. cal value to the people of Daviess County. On the old Moses Inglehart farm., about two miles a little north of east from Livermore, a coal-stain makes its appearance in the hillside near the dwelling. When first visited it was supposed to be the outcropping of a bed of some importance, but subsequent examinations have not verified the conjecture. A carbonate iron ore, however, which lies about four feet below the coal-stain, has a very fair appearance and may prove to be of value. This can only be proved by a more extended digging than has yet been 253 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. done, to determine its area, and by chemical analysis to test its purity. The bed rangtes from six to nine inches in thickness. It is especially desirable, in order to judge of the value of this ore, to become fully acquainted with its horizontal extent and physical chances, as in some places it seems to pass into a ferruginous lime- stone, which is of no value as an iron ore. Immediately under the iron ore, and sometimes merging into it at the top, a bed of lime- stone about nine inches thick occurs. It weathers with a yellowish surface marked with white splotches. The surface is also marked by drab lumps which are spread over it. The rock seems to be really bare of organic remains; a few small fragments of crinoid columns and some other small fossils were found. On Timor Howard's farm, near John Jones's place, which is about four miles northeastwardly from Riley's Station, a deposit of black slate occurs, moderately rich in bituminous elements and cannel coal-like in structure. This deposit is known in the neigh- borhood as cannel coal; but it approaches more nearly to cannel slate in its physical characters. The section as exposed in 1875, contained four feet of block bituminous slate that somewhat re- sembled cannel slate, one foot of layer containing iron, two feet of cannel slate and fourteen inches of feriferous layer. On John Jones's land, near his dwelling, a limestone holding considerable bitumen (in cavities) is exposed. In appearance the limestone resembles some of the carboniferous beds, but its identity could not be proved. The presence of bitumen in the rock has caused some to have faith in the existence of a profitable quantity of petroleum on the farm. There does not seem to be in fact, however, any evidence to justify such a belief. There were some unsuccessful borings made for salt on the place several years ago. Sandy shale was penetrated to some depth (which was not very con- siderable), but, so far as can be gathered, the boring was without result of any kind. A few feet above the limestone a coal dirt is exposed on the hillside, and is overlaid by ocherous sandy shale. This coal has been worked near Mr. Jones's and is reported to measure three feet in thickness when well opened. On Mr. T. B. Bratcher's place, near Mr. Jones's, about two and a half miles east of Tichnor's Station, limestone is again found which may be equivalent to that seen at Mr. Jones's, although topographically nearly 130 feet above it. AS is the case with the limestone seen at Mr. Jones's, fossils are quite rare in the rock, and only a few crinoid columns 254 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. were found. At about fifteen feet above the limestone at Mr. Bratcher's spring, an inch or two of coal has been found. Frag- ments of pebbly sandstone are strewn over the slope of the hill. The outcrop of limestone OD Mr. Bratcher's place is about two miles west from the the Barrett's Creek salt wells, in Ohio County, at which point the Rough Creek uplift is plainly visible, the Chester beds being brought to the surface there and tilted at high angles. About one mile eastwardly from Tichnor's Station a coal bed has been opened by William Atherton. The bed is nearly three and a half feet thick, but so far as proven in 1875 was not of excellent quality. From the positions of the poorer portions of the bed, however, it is presumable that when followed further under the hill, beyond the reach of atmospheric agencies, the coal may gain considerably in quality. A few outcrops were seen in other local- ities between Livermore and Riley's Station, a distance of six miles by the railroad, but very little could be determined concerning them. From Riley's Station to Lewis's Station there are ewv out- crops, but the surface is less flat than toward Livermore. Within a mile of Lewis's Station the cuts begin to show sandstone and shale. In the cuts just south of the twelfth mile-post (number- ing from Owensboro) a total thickness of twenty-five feet of sand- stone is exposed. This overlies a coal which has opened near the road, on land belonging either to Mr. Field or Mr. Vanarsdal. The bed is reported to be three feet thick. It is covered by bituminous slate, which appears to be suffleiently dense to form a good roof for mining under. The position of the coal is about ten feet below the railroad at the twelfth. mile-post. The ground immediately at the present place of opening is not suitable for mining on a large scale, because of the short depth of the coal below the surface. " Strip- ping" seems to be the only convenient means by which the coal may be reached. At the hills, however, where the overlying sand- stone is present, it is possible for the coal to be worked with more profit. An outcropping of the western extension of the bed is found on George N. McKay's land, about west of the twelfth mile- post. Mr. McKay did a little digging in the coal, in a small branch. He estimated the thickness of the bed at three feet ten inches to four feet four inches. The quality and general character of the coal has not been proved, no opening being in a suitable condition for sampling the bed or for studying it sufficiently. From Lewis's Station to Crow's Station, a distance of three miles, a few low hills are seen, but the outcrops are few. 255 2HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. At Hickman's, just south of the ninth mile-post from Owensboro, the cuts expose about twenty feet of sandstone. Below the sand- stone, with shale () between, a thin coal is exposed, not exceeding sixteen inches in thickness. It is covered by twenty-one inches of bituminous slate. A number of springs issue from beneath this coal bed, and have a considerable local reputation, the place serv- ing in a modest way as a watering place for the people of Owens- boro. The waters are chiefly chalybeate. Two or three of them contain alum, however, one of them being rather remarkable for the amount of this material it contains. In one of the springs a small amount of copper was found; but the amount is so small that it will not seriously affect the influence of the waters. The "Slphur," "Brick," and "Yellow" springs are chalybeate--that is, they yield traces of iron. The chalvbeate spring near Lewis's Station, and also Dr. Hickman's residence has considerably more iron. From Crow's Station to Owensboro flats are the prevailing features, the " Black " and " Panther Creek " flats filling the larger part of the distance. In the vicinity of Owensboro several coal mines have been opened; all of which are probably in coal D. Two miles and a half below town, at the site of the old Coal Haven factory, eighteen inches of coal is exposed in the bank of the Ohio River. A section at this place exhibited five feet or more of thin-bedded sandstone, ten feet of sandy, thinly laminated shale, next, an earthy, pyritous, some- what lumpy and calcareous band of about two inches, which abounds in crinoidal columns, and several other interesting fossils, then three feet of dark shale, passing below into a dense, black slate, and lastly about twenty inches of coal. In the hills back from the river coal D has been worked. Barrett's new bank, near the old Bon Harbor mines, exhibits a stratum of coal fifty-two to fifty-eight inches in thickness, and is covered by dense, hard slate. The posi- tion of the coal is about 120 feet above the one exposed at the river, though it may be somewhat less. The upper fourteen inches of the bed is said to be the best. The same bed is worked at Mr. S. M. Dean's mine, which is about one mile and a half below Owensboro. At this bank the coal measures four feet four inches in thickness. At the " Dutch " mine, about ene mile and a half above Owensboro, the coal worked varies from three and a half to three feet two inches in thickness. At the "Montgomery" mine, near the one men- tioned above, the same coal is worked, and measures three feet two 256 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. -inches in thickness. The percentage of sulphur is comparatively low in this bed. It is probable that the coal worked here is an ex- tension of the bed worked below Owensboro; but the wide differ- ences to be observed between the analysis of the samples collected at the mines below the town and of those collected here would seem to indicate a possibility of their being distinct beds. A coal seam, twenty inches thick is reported to have been found ninety feet below the one wrought at these mines. In the eastern part of the county, the Hawes' main coal is about 300 feet below the Lewisport coal, or 260 feet below the surface at the foot of the Lewisport coal mine hill. The extent of the hills between Blackford and Yellow creeks forbids the idea that a very -extended field of the bed known as the Lewisport coal, especially as the limestone in the upper part of the section is generally cut in the valleys, leaving quite narrow ridges, containing this bed be- tween them. In fact, the main Hawesville coal is brought above the drainage about two miles northwest of Knottsville, where it was in 1855 worked by Mr. Weisel. The same coal bed can be seen in outcrop at several places, near Mr. Weisel's, on Pup Creek. This bed is also opened on the north- west side o0 the ridge half a mile above J. V. Wat hen's. The coal dips rapidly to the northwest from this last opening, bringing the coal down to the branch bottom in a short distance. The sand- stone covering the main Hawes' coal is much thinner here than at the Hawes' mine, or, that another limestone has been intercalated. About sixty feet above the coal, on both sides of the ridge, a lime- stone occurs having the general characters of the lower limestone of the section referred to above, especially in the character of the fossils contained in it. Commencing at the bed of the branch, and counting upward, the strata at Weisel's coal mines in 1855 were found to be as tollows: Under clay, two feet ; coal, the top part containing thin layers of shale, four feet. four inches ; bituminous shale, containing lingule, five feet, eight inches ; sandstone, soft, of a grayish white color, five feet ; soft, yellow sandstone, thirteen feet ; sandstone, weathering into holes, ten feet ; covered space, thirty feet ; limestone, four feet; covered space, forty feet ; sandstone, fifteen feet; covered space, twenty-six feet, top of the hill. We are indebted to T. H. Osborne, Local Geologist of this county, for most of the notes following in reference to out-croppings of coal, etc., in the eastern part of the county. 17 257 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. The coal on the waters of Blackford to within a mile of Knotts- ville is three to four feet, four inches. On Ireland Head, three, miles from Knottsville, the coal crops out four feet thick with a covering of fifty feet of sandstone and shale. One mile east, on the land of Richard Long, the brown coal occurs, and, like the bitu- minous, is four feet, four inches, in thickness. It shows a woody or slaty structure and is fossiliferous. A half mile from this place, on E. Jarboe's land, on a northwest hill near Pup Creek, there is an out-crop of coal fifty inches thick, underneath sandstone. A mile due east, on Widow Bowles's land, on the Knottsville and Hawesville road, and a mile from Knottsville, there are three feet of c al, under forty feet of sandstone. On Charles Clement's land, a mile from the last place, the coal vein is thirty-three inches in thickness. This land is on the Oweusboro and Cloverport road one mile above Knottsville. Due east of the last, on George Aull's land, which is on the Whitesville and Knottsville road, the coal has a three-foot vein. A half mile further, on Charles Higdon's land, the coal is fifty- two inches thick. A mile southwest, on Mr. Carico's place, it is thirty inches. Three noiles southeast, on 'Squire Anderson's land, between Whitesville and Knottsville, the coal is also thirty inches. This coal lies in pocket. From this point on to Knottsville there seems to be a general thinning of this coal seam. A shaft at George Mullin's flonring mill in Whitesville is sunk, forty feet deep, through twenty-nine inches of coal. Oni William Clark's farm, in Upper Town Precinct, is found No. 2 peacock coal, thirty inches thick. From A. Clark, Jr.'s to John McFarland's, northeast of Owensboro, outeroppings are seen among the hills. The strata about Hill's bridge, on the McFarland's Mill road, are in the tidal-wave formation, with upheavals and outeroppings of coal on North Panther Creek. On Barney May's farm, near Panther Creek and about four miles from Owensboro, Mr. Osborne in the latter part of November, 1882, discovered peacock coal thirty inches thick. Indeed, coal can be found in hundreds of places throughout Daviess County, and among them Mr .Osborne has found outeroppings, stains, etc., on the lands of Albert Clark, near the Litelifield road, four miles from Owensboro; on Jackson Sublette's horse lot, one and a half miles further; on Frank Yew- ell's place, near Zion Church; on the lands of II. B. Pardon; on the Hartford road, three miles from Owensboro; on Mr. Ratt's, 258 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. three and a half miles from Owensboro; on R. F. Wilkerson's, same vicinity; on the lands of Thils. H. Higdon, W. J. Clark, etc., etc. Among the Shaw Hills, on the Blackford, and about a mile and a half above its mouth, are three strata of coal,-the highest 315 feet above low-water nmark in the Ohio River, and is covered with - hard sandstone and limestone. The outcrop on Blackford near the Knottsville and Hawesville bridge is of the sandstone forma- tion. From the St. Lawrence, church a mile and a half above Knottsville, to Martin Wathen's, is a coal vein varying from twenty-two to thirty-six inches. The coal from the Montgomery mine, a mile and a half above Owensboro (coal D), is of a pure, pitch black, has but little fibrous coal in it, but has some thin scales of pyrites in the seam. That of the Dutch mine is similar. The latter is a " splint " coal, as is also that of Bon Harbor. That of Duncan's bank, near Knotts- ville, splits easily into thin laminre; has considerable fibrous coal and some granular pyrites and pyritic bright scales. LIMESTONE AND SANDSTONE. There is good building stone in nearly all parts of Daviess County. In the Shawv Hills, previously referred to, there is a limestone as good as the Louisville variety. From James Lafoe's to the Han- cock County line the sandstone is fine for building purposes. Quarries are worked here. This stone is underlaid with a blue va- riety good for grindstones and scythe-stones. On John Jones's and Mr. Bratcher's places, about two and a half miles east of Tichenor's Station, limestone exists of good building qualities. Fossils are quite rare in these strata. That on Bratcher's place is topograph- ically 130 feet higher than that of Mr. Jones's. Fifteen feet above the limestone at Bratcher's Spring, an inch or two of coal has been found. Fragments of pebbly sandstone are strewn over the slope of the hill. The outcrop of limestone on Mr. Bratcher's place is about two miles from Barrett's Creek salt wells, in Ohio County, at which point the Rough Creek uplift is plainly visible. The Chester beds are here brought to the surface and tilted at right an les. The four-feet coal in the bed of Blackford Creek lies in the sub- carboniferous limestone, as well as the "anvil rock "or " shot- pouch sandstone." From the Shaw Hills to James Estes', on the Yelvington road, five miles from the latter place, the same sub- carboniferous limestone prevails, as well as the Averill sandstone. 259 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. A few outcrops of coal'are found along the railroad in the south- ern portion of the county. Withina mile of Lewis's Station the cuts begin to show sandstone and shale. In the cuts just south of the twelfth mile-post, numbering from Owensboro, a total thickness of twenty-five feet of sandstone is exposed. This overlies a coal which has been opened near the road, on land belonging either to Mr. Field or Mr. VanArsdal. The bed is reported to be three feet thick. It is covered by bituminous slate, which appears to be suf- ficently dense to form a good roof for mining under. The position of the coal is about ten feet below the railroad at the twelfth mile- post. At Dr. Hickman's, just south of the ninth mile-post, the cuts expose about twenty feet of sandstone. OTHER MINERALS. On Alex. Hill's farm, on the southwest side of Panther Creek, shale and ocher are exhibited eight to ten feet thick in the bank. Yel- low ocher and red (keel) of very fine quality are found in this and other places. Iron ore is found in this county, but not in workable quantities. Lead exists in a stratum three eighths of an inch thick, in a stone quarry between James Lafoe's and the Hancock County line. "Floating lead" is also found in small quantities. On the Blackford, about two- and a half miles above its mouth, lead is su p- posed to exist, from which the early settlers used to mold bullets. The precise spot is not now clearly identified, but there is a tradition that Indians used to obtain lead at this point, and were engaged in mining it in 1793, when they espied Captain Win. Hardin in the ear vicinity and captured him. Clay.-There is clay on the farm of Rev. A. Hopkins, near Crow's Station, which is somewhat sandy, of a light-gray color, with ferruginous infiltrations in the fissures, and some old obscure vegetable impressions. It contains about fifty per cent. of fine clear sand. It burns quite hard, turning to a handsome liglht- salmon color, and hence may be quite valuable for terra cotta work, or bricks, or tiles. The air-dried clay lost one and a half per cent. of moisture at 212 Fahrenheit, and as much more of combined water at red heat. It would probably shrink less in the fire than most clays, but would not answer for a fire-clay. Of blue potters' clay a bed or vein ten to fourteen feet thick, and ten to fifteen feet below the top of the bank, extends from three miles above to two miles below Owensboro; and a short distance - 260 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. south of thecity is a bed of white clay. A fine English fire-clay was discovered by T. H. Osborne near Whitesville, about three fourths of a mile from Boston Rock crystal, of gravity 2.5, and mica, gravity 3, are found in this county-the latter on the edge ot the western coal field, in the St. Louis group. Salt water of excellent quality can be obtained by boring 500 to 700 feet deep. MINERAL SPRINGS. Two miles north of Calhoon, in the neighborhood of the old "Vienna settlement " on Green River, are the " tar and sulphur " springs. The medicinal substance referred to is a gummy matter which rises to the surface during the nlight to the extent of a quart or two, and is reputed to be good for sores. Accessible only when the water is low. The waters of Yelvington Spring contain free carbonic acid, bi-carbonates of lime and magnesia, salt, a trace of iron, and pos- sibly of an alkaline carbonate. To the latter may be due the flat taste of the water, after it has stood for a time. Part of the mag- nesia may be united with chlorine. If sulphates are present they are in too small quantities to be detected with any degree of certainty without boiling the water down. The Oliver Spring, on the waters of Blackford, gives nearly the same results. except that it contains more iron. Murray's Spring, near Lewis's Station, is chalybeate and saline, ani n its chemical reaction neutral. It is doubtless a healthful water. A little over one-thousandth part of it is lime carbonate, and then follow in the order of quantity by weight, magnesia sul- phate, soda sulphate, potash sulphate, iron carbonate, lime sulphate, common salt, etc. Dr. Hickman's springs, near Crow's Station, are named "Alum," "Sulphur," " Brick " and " Yellow." The Alum spring yields a water of strong acid reaction, and is richly impregnated with iron salt. A five-thousandth part of this is solid matter, of which nearly seventy-nine per cent. is iron peroxide, nearly fifteen per cent. combined water, five per cent. sulphuric acid (anhydrous), etc. The other springs abound mostly in soda sulphate, magnesia sul- phate, lime sulphate, lime carbonate, common salt, magnesia carbonate, etc. In all these springs are traces of copper, lithia, silica, organic matters, etc., which are so small in quantity as to 261 262 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. require no notice. The alum waters are highly astringent, and are doubtless too strong for internal use without dilution, in most cases. The saline and sniphur waters are alterative, slightly aperient, diuretic, or sudorific, and hence depurative, according to the man- ner of their administration under medical advice. As a health resort the above springs have long been noted, and a hotel was built there many years ago for the accommodation of visitors. It was burned down in 1860, and a new, large, frame building erected in 1865 by Dr. W. A. Hickman; also a dwelling bonse, still larger. Play-grounds were fitted up. The patronage most of the time was larger than could well be accommodated. It is still a favorite place for picnics, although the hotel was closed three years ago. CHAPTER XII. BOTANY AND ZOOLOGY. The groves were God's first temples. Yea; And they're His holiest temples still. The term Ibotany" comprises everything that grows in the soil, from the largest tree to the smallest moss. Scientifically, every living organism that subsists upon inorganic matter is a plant, whether it possesses locomotion and sensitiveness or not; while all living organisms that subsist upon organic matter are animals, although soine of them are fixed to a spot as most plants are. Daviess County is in a region favorable to the high develop- ment of many species in the vegetable kingdom. While about 2,300 species of plants are found native in the United States, about 1,600 are found within the State of Kentucky, and fully 1,000 within the limits of Daviess County. In the following paragraphs we will notice only those of interest to the general reader; and we will mention the most conspicuous first, pursuing the following order: 1. Trees which grow to the full forest height. 2. Low trees. 3. Shrubs and bushes. 4. Vines, woody and herbaceous. 5. Native herbs. 6. Weeds, or introduced herbs, growing spontaneously in cultivated and waste places. TALL TREES. Oaks.-The most conspicuous family of the forest is that ot the oaks. There is a greater variety and abundance of them than of any other tree, and, perhaps, in this country, they are the most useful of all. At the head of this family stands the White Oak, which, though the most common species of oak in some sections of the country, is not so abundant in Daviess County as somne other species. Being the most useful for general purposes, it has been cut out of the forest more than the others, and thus inade relatively scarcer. Bur Oak is abundant, and in general utility is, perhaps, next the White species. Swamp White Oak is rare. A species of Bur Oak called " Post Oak " occurs here and there. Of the oaks which have a black, hard, rough bark, the most (263) HISTORY OF DAV IESS COUNTY. prominent are the Scarlet, Red, Black, Black Jack, Shingle and Water Oaks. The Willow Oak, so called from the form of its leaves, occurs, but is rare. The Black, Scarlet and Shingle oaks are of the first order for fuel, as they furnish fully as much heat as hickory, afford ashes strong with lye, and produce good embers and charcoal. The other oaks are low trees, and are mentioned under the next sub-head. The Oak family intermix to a great extent-in some localities so much that it is really difficult for even a scientist to classify them. Elrns.-Next to the oaks the White Elm is the most common tree in this county. Its principal value is as a shade-tree, though when sawed thin it is much used for small goods boxes. See next sub-head for the other two elms. Syeamoee, or Buttonwood.-This is the only species of its fam- ily in America, and finds its home in all the Ohio Valley. Used as a street shade-tree here, where it forms beautiful heads, and produces larger leaves than any other tree. Sawed thin its wood makes good material for small boxes. Poplaws.-The Cottonwood is a well-known, large swamp tree, of but little account. The Quaking Asp, or American Aspen, is a true poplar, and is scarce. Tulip-Tree.-This is not a poplar, though often so called. It has also been called white-wood and cucumber-wood. It used to be common in this region, but, being very useful for box lumber, it has been pretty well ect out. TWalv ts.-The Black Walnut, for its richly-shaded dark wood, is the most valuable tree of the forest. Specimens in the North have been sold for as much as 1,200 a tree, as they stood on the ground ! Consequently it has become scarce, as a large tree. White Walnut or Butternut, is found occasionally, and is abundant in some parts of the county. The wood is much used at the pres- ent day for veneering. -Aaples.-Three species of maple are found in Daviess County:- 1. Hard, Sugar or Rock, with a variety called Black. 2. Red or Swamp. 3. White or Silver. The two latter are soft-wooded. The hard maple, or " sugar-tree," was once abundant here, but is now scarce. Hickories.-These are, botanically speaking, members of the Walnut family. At the head of this class of trees stands the Western Shell-bark, for its fruit and its wood; but it is not so- 264 This page in the original text is blank. f' Is = -st !- i' Is - - ' ., i_ ' v r E LES's 41:f ken HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. common as formerly. Akin to it is the common Shell-bark or Shag-bark, which, by the way, is much more common East than here. The " Small-fruited " Hickory is abundant in this region. Of those bearing soft-shelled nuts, the most common are the Bit- ter-nut and Pig-nut; the next the Mocker-nut, or White-hearted Hickory; and lastly the favorite Pecan. A few specimens are found which, by the fruit, seem to be a cross between the Small- fruited Hickory and the Pecan Ash.-Of this family the White was once the most common; but, being a valuable tree for fuel and lumber, it has become compara- tively scarce. It has also been called Black Ash, Blue Ash and Gray Ash. The Red Ash, the Green Ash and the true Blue Ash are found iln this county, the latter very scarce. The last three are of but little value. The true Black Ash is said to be abun- dant. Lin, Linden or Basswood.-One species was formerly abundant, and one has always been scarce. The latter species has larger leaves, with a silvery white and fine down underneath. Birch.-River or Red Birch occurs along the streams. Catalpa.-Of this there are two species, both rare in this county. One is much more hardy than the other, and valuable for fence- posts, etc. Its time of flowering is three weeks earlier than the tenderer kind. It was formerly common. Specimens have been found over four feet in diameter. Iackberry.-A few specimens of this tree are still found. It belongs to the Elm family and is not a valuable tree. Coffee Tree.-This denizen of the forest has always been rare. The tree is best known by its beautiful compound leaves and glossy beans. Honey Locust.-Common. Valuable for hedges, and in the ex- treme northern portion of the Union it is hardier than Osage Orange, and therefore better for this purpose. Sweet Guma.-This tree has somewhat star-shaped leaves, yields a fragrant white gumn, and that which grows among other tall trees yields the most valuable lumber, taking the place at once of pine, walnut and cherry. This was originally one of the most abundant of trees, but it is now reduced to one fourth or less. Although the botanists recognize but one species here, difference of situation produces so great a difference that the people say there are at least two varieties,-the yellow or red wooded and the white-wooded, the first mentioned being valuable and the other almost or quite worthless. 265 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. "Black Gum," called also Sour Gunm, Pepperidge, Nyssa and Tupelo, is not at all akin to the preceding. It grows to full forest height. Its black, acid berries are not edible. It is still plentiful. The wood is good only for hubs of wheels, etc. The true Black Guin is rare. Ckerry.-The Wild Black Cherry is common, and reaches its greatest perfection here. Beech.-This very common tree of the Lake region and the East was formerly represented by a few speciaiens in this county. Cypress.-The Atnerican Bald Cypress may possibly be found in Daviess County. It is common south of Green River. Sorrel-wood, Cactunber-wood and Snow-drop tree are very rare in this region; and the Umbrella tree may possibly occur here. LOW TREES. While a few under the preceding head scarcely ever reach the heighlt of the tallest forest tree, those which wve shall enumerate under this head never reach the average height of the forest, and range down to less than twenty feet, where they mingle, in classi- fication, with " bushes " and shrubs, treated under the next stub- head Elrn.-The Slippery, or Red, and the Winged occur here and there. Oak.--Post Oak and Black Jack are common. Buckeye.-The Smooth Ohio, or Fetid Buckeye occurs in the river bottomns, but has always been scarce. Pawpaiv.-Well known throughout the Ohio River Valley for its banana-like fruit, which some persons learn to like as an article of diet. To "learn to like " them one must merely taste of them, at times far apart, and when hungry and under the most favorable circumstances. Even then many will fail. Persimmnom.-Comntnon and more edible than the preceding. Persons abroad do not know much al)out them, from the fact that they cannot be shipped to a great distance. Before they are per- fectly soft they are inedible, and after that they decay too rapidly for shippino to market. Some one might make a little money at drying and canning, them. Persimmon trees four feet in diameter have been seen here. I!Mulbeery.-This occurs here, but, as everywhere else, is rare. Crabapple.-Two species are found here, but neither is as abundant as elsewhere. 266 HISTORY OF DAkVIESS COUNTY. Thorn.-There are five species of thorn in this region, gener- ally known as Red Haws. The most common are Black or Pear, the Cockspur, the Washington and the Scarlet-fruited. Box-Elder, or Ash-leaved Maple was formerly common, but is now scarce. Red Bud, or Judas Tree, is common in this vicinity, and is well known by its purplish crimson tops in early spring before the leaves appear. Red Cedar occurs, but is rare. Sassafras and Spice Bash, almost the only two members of the Laurel family in the United States, are both common in this county. The latter, however, is a shrub, and is becoming scarce. Sassafras four feet four inches in diameter have been found in Daviess Cou1nty. Service or June Berry.-Rare. Alder.-The Smooth and Hoary Alders, of the Birch family, and Black Alder or Winterberry, of the Holly family, occur in this county. Dogwood.--The Flowering Dogwood is a common low tree; the other dowoodii are mentioned under the next sub-head. fop llornbeam and Water Beech found occasionally, as also the Southern Buckthorn. Wafer Ash, a tree whose bark and leaves yield a fetid odor, is sometimes found. Is sometimes alsocalled Hop Tree and Shrubby Trefoil. The Common or " Black " Locust is native here. Holly.-'One species of holly may occur in wet grounds. Willows.-Six species of willows are found in this county, rang- ing from shrubs to small trees. BUSHES AND SHRUBS. Dogwoods (the Silky and the Panicled Cornels), Butter Bush, False Indigo, Wild Hydrangea, Burning Bush, Bladdernut, Com- mon Elder, three species of Sunmach, Wolfberry, Coralberry, Wild Black Currant, two species of Gooseberry, Black Haw, White Rod, Shrubby St. John's wort, Mistletoe, Spice Bush, Prickly Ash, Calico Bush (or Ivy), Holly-leaved Oak, Alder Buckthorn, Choke Cherry, Choke Berry, two species of Plum, and two species of Hazienut are about all that come under this head in Daviess County. 26T HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. VINES. Grape.-The Winter or Frost Grape is common, but the Sum- mer Grape, a delicious fruit, is very scarce, if indeed it can be found at all in this county. In early days it was common, but the vines have been destroyed by reckless grape-gatherers. The Catawba is escaping from cultivation. The Virginia Creeper, or American " Ivy," is abundant throughout the West. Poison Ivy.-This occurs almost everywhere, sometimes as a small shrub, when it is called Poison Oak, and sometimes as a large vine reaching to the top of the tallest tree. It has three leaflets to each leaf, while the Virginia Creeper has five; and young Box-Elder is distinguished from Poison Ivy by whitish bloom cov- ering the leaf-stems and green twigs of the former. Virgin's Bower occurs but rarely. Moonseed is common everywhere. This has erroneously been called Sarsaparilla. Its round, yellow roots have a tonic bitter taste. Climbing Bittersweet is a twining, woody vine, found occasion- ally. It bears orange-colored berries, in clusters which are con- spicuous in autumn, resembling wax-work, by which term they are indeed sometimes called, and have been used in ornamentation. This vine is also called simply Bittersweet, but the true medical Bittersweet is a plant of an entirely different order and appearance, not a vine, and not growing wild in this county. Vetcles.-This term may comprise several small herbaceous vines of the pea and bean family, occurring frequently in the woods, but of no great consequence. Hop.-Occasional. Wild Pea Vine, or Hog Peanuzt, is abundant. Wild Balsam Apple, called also Wild Cucumber, and by many- other local names, is a vigorous, herbaceous vine, bearing a bur- like fruit, like that of the Jimson-weed, and flourishing about cul- tivated grounds. Morning-glory.-The most common plant of this order, growing spontaneously beyond the bounds of cultivation, is the Hedge Bindweed, or Rutland Beauty. Eight species of Dodder (-I Love- vine") may be found, all rare except one. It appears like orange-- colored thread growing on the tops of weeds. Bindweeds.-Black Bindweed, arrow-leaved Tear-thumb, and climbing false Buckwheat occur here and there. The first men-- tioned is sometimes a pest in fields. 268 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Wild Yam, Green Brier, Carrion Flower, etc., are common in -the woods. Besides the above, there are several species of plants which are sometimes called vines, but are not strictly such. They grow mostly prostrate on the ground, but neither climb nor twine; for examples, Goose-grass, Bracted Vervain, Yellow Honeysuckle, etc. NATIVE HERBS. The most common wild herbacious plants, especially in earlier days, were wild Sunflowers, Cooneflowers, Spanish Needle, Stick- seed, Tick-seed, Rosin-weed, Sneeze-weed, Yarrow, Asters, Flea- banes, Golden-rods, Thoroughworts, Iron-weeds, Fire-weed, This- tles, Catch-fly, Wood-sorrel, Spring Beauty, Anemones, Violets, Milkweeds, May-Apple, Loosestrife, Wild Parsley, Dogbane, Sweet Ciceley, Bedstraw (Cleavers and Goose-grass), Gerardia, American Pennyroyal, Wild Mint, Water Hoarhound, Giant -lys- sop, Red and Yellow Puccoon, Beggar's-Lice, Wild Phloxes (Sweet William), Ground Cherry, Rich-weed, Potentilla, Wild Touch-me- not, Three-seeded Mercury, Horse-tail, Cat-tail, Arrow-head Tril- liums, Solomon's Seal, Spider-wort, and the Ferns. Ginseng, locally called " sang," was common in early day, but, on account of its marketable value, it has been about all eradicated from our woods; and for the same reason, its supposed value, it has never been considered a weed. In addition to the foregoing, we may add the following, as oc- curring more rarely, but were still frequent and -were either prominent or interesting in some feature: Adam and Eve, Adder's Tongue, Agrimony, Alum-root, Avens, Baneberry, Beard-tongue, Black Snakeroot, Blood-root, Blne Flag, Bog Rush, Boneset, Buck Bean, Bull Rush, Bush Clover, Cardinal Flower, Club Rush, Cohoslh, Columbine, Cress, Crowfoots, Cudweed, Culver's Physic, Dragoon-root, Dry Strawberry, Dutchman's Breeches, Enchanter's Nightshade, Evening Primrose, Feverwort, Fog-fruit, Fool's Parsley, Foxglove, Gentians, Goat's Rue, Golden Alexander, Greek Valerian, Groundnut, Groundsel, Hawk-weed, Hedge Nettle, Herb Robert, Hibiscus, Horsemint, Honewort, Hound's Tongue, Indian Turnip, Ladies' Slipper, Lead Plant, Leaf-cup, Leek, Liverwort, Lousewort, Lupine, Marsh-mallow, Marsh-nari- gold, Meadow Rue, Monkey Flower, Mouse-ear, Mugwort, Nettle, Pepper-and-Salt, Pond-weed, Pond Lily, Prairie Burdock, Rue Anemone, Seltheal, Seneca, nakeroot, Squill Star-grass, Trum- 269 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. pet-weed. Venus' Looking-glass, Virginia Snakeroot, Wake Robin, Waterleaf, Water Parsnip, Water Plantain, Wild Ginger, Wild Indito, Wild Larkspur, Wild Rye, Wild Pepper-grass, Wild Sar- saparilla, Wild Touch-me-not, Worm-seed, Yellow Pond Lily. WEEDS. These are introduced herbs, growving spontaneously in cultivated and waste grounds. These, of course, have not been purposely introduced from the East and from Europe, but their seeds have been unavoidably brought West in the shipment of goods and otherwise: The most familiar weeds in this section of country are Smart- weed, Knot-weed, Pig-weed, Thorny Amaranth, Lamb's Quarter, Dog-Fennel or May-weed, Bull-Nettle, Jimson, Poke, Indian Mallow, Pursley, Spurge, Shepherd's Purse, Pepper-grass, Chick- weed, Common Mallows, Gill, Bouncing Bet, Milkweed, several species, Silk-weed, Figwort, Motherwort, Catnip, Hoarhound, Mullein, four Vervains, Burdock, Cocklebur (both Common and Spiny), Black Nightshade, Dandelion, Toad Flax, Sow Thistle, S ueeze-weed, Iron-weed, Plantain, Goosefoot, Rich-weed, Rag- weed, Horse-weed, Camphor-weed, etc. The Thorny Amaranth has been introduced since the commencement of the last war, apparently from the South. Clover and grass, as they grow on the commons, are scarcely considered weeds, on account of their great utility to live stock, while many field and garden plants, when cultivated for their products are considered useful, are weeds whfen they come spon- taneously in the way, obstructing the desired cultivation of other plants. Plants "escaping from cultivation," as Spider-flower, or Cleomne, Bouncing Bet, Bittersweet, Parsnip, Stonecrop, Sunflower, Prince's Feather, Lungwort, Horse Radish, Gill, Indian Heliotrope, Morning Glory, Buckwheat, etc., are weeds or not weeds, accord- ing to whether they come in our way or not. The term " botany" includes all mushrooms, toadstools, mildew, rust, etc., varying in size from that of a flour barrel to a micro- scopic point. Most fungi are microscopic, and many living germs are so minute and so low in the scale of organization that they are neither vegetable nor animal. The germs of decay are living "organisms," not known to be either vege- table or animal, and are mostly of the species called "Bac-- 270) HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. 271 terium. " Nearly all discolorations of leaves are dne to the presence of minute fungi or kindred organisms, which are as symmetrical as wheels, and often beautiful. Pear-blight and apple-blight are now believed to be caused by bacteria or other germs of disease, and nearly all diseases of plants, as well as many affections among men, are now supposed by the medical profession to be caused, or at least accompanied, by such germs, in countless millions. The amateur botanist, at the present day, finds but little interest in rambling through the woods of Kentucky, because bypasturage nearly all the native plants are killed out, and their place supplied by a few insignificant weeds and grasses. But the seeker after fungi, mildews, rusts, etc., finds a much richer field than he could have found fifty or seventy-five years ago. "Malaria" signifies bad air; and the badness consists of disease germs, but it is not known whether these are vegetable or animal or neither. These germs are very numerous in their genera and species, and most of them are always more or less present. Hence it is always better to counteract them. by preserving a vigorous, state of the body than by seeking antidotal poisons. ZOOLOGY. This term refers to the whole animal kingdom, and as a science is divided into "Zoology," in the narrowest sense, which is the nat- ural history of quadrupeds, ornithology (of birds), hepetology (of reptiles), entomology (of insects), etc. Q aadrupeds.-The most conspicuous wild animals of pioneer times in this part of Kentucky were buffalo, elk, deer, bears, wolves, panthers, jaguars, wild-cats, wild hogs, foxes, raccoons (' Coons"), opossuins (II possums"), skunks (or " pole cats"), ot- ters, beavers, inusk-rati, minks, weasels, ground-hogs (or "wood- chucks"), squirrels, rabbits and moles. As a rule the larger species disappeared first. and the smaller, most of them, remain until the present time. First the buffalo and elk disappeared, then bears, panthers, deer, beaver, etc. The smaller native quadrupeds have generally become very scarce, while those of civilization, as rats and mice, have become abundant. In some of the wilder parts of the county there may yet be seen occasionally a deer, a wolf, a panther, or a wild-cat. The gray fox has mainly become extinct ; there are some red foxes yet. Opos- sums are nearly all gone. Their flesh is eaten by many persons, HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. baked with sweet potatoes. There are a good many raccoons yet, especially in the flats of Panther Creek. They are caught with traps, and by treeing them, and by chasing after them by their tracks in the snow. Skunks, otters, and weasels are very rare. There are a goodly number of musk-rats and minks. Wild bogs were the descendants of stray domestic individuals. In some sec- -tions they used to be common, but they disappeared about the time that "' hog, cholera" came about. Ground-hogs are still found occa- sionally. Squirrels are still abundant in some localities, especially during seasons of mast. The gray squirrel predominates in numbers. No black specimens have been reported, although, of course, some may have existed. Flying squirrels exist in this section. Moles are quite abundant. Birds.-The species of fowls inhabiting this country are too nu- merous to mention here. All exist to this day that have ever flourished here; but the wild turkey, being a good game bird and very large, has of course become very scarce. Quails are still common. In the city of Owensboro the English sparrow is beginning to multiply, which the citizens will probably regret in the future. In early times a great migration or raid often took place, of pig- eons, wild turkeys, squirrels, etc. Pigeons would sometimesdarken the sky for hours as they flew over, and bend and break down the boughs of the trees when they roosted. Squirrels would some- times migrate in immense numbers, swimming the streams, when they would be easily caught and killed. The pioneers have many interesting experiences to relate con- cerning the chase and wild animals generally. A large volume could easily be filled with entertaining anecdotes. A query for naturalists is the curious fact that while fox squirrels and cranes are abundant, or often seen, on the Indiana side of the river within a mile of this city, they are never seen on this side; and strange enough, the gray squirrel to be found anywhere on this side is rarely or never seen on the Indiana shore. We are further informed that the ground squirrel, so common everywhere, is almost unknown in Daviess County, although in the adjoining counties of Ohio, MTuhlenbur(g and McLean they are numerous. The scarcity of rock in this county is given as a reason of the absence of the latter. Reptiles.-The hard-shelled or snapping turtle, the soft-shelled, -the land and map turtle, are all common. -272 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Of snakes in this region, the most noted are the moccasin, the timber rattlemnake, black racer, which is plentiful, black and garter snakes, spreading viper or adder, milk or house snake, copper- head, American ring-snake and the grass snake. These reptiles, however, are all diminishing in numbers, as the county becomes more densely populated. A black snake fifteen feet long and fif- teen or twentv inches girth was said to exist in 1870. on the farm of Mrs. Jam-tes Shipp, near Owensboro. It had been seen occa- sionally for eight or ten years previously. Three or four species of lizard abound in this region, but, like the toads, they are innocent and of no consequence. Fish.-About all the fish that are found in Western waters are found also within the limits of Daviess County; and this county is well favored with good fishing waters,-the Ohio River, Green River, Panther Creek, and numerous other creeks and ponds. Alt the game fish, especially the finer kinds, are much scarcer at the present day than in early times, but there are State laws prohibit- ing their wanton destruction. The best kinds referred to are the black or green, and the striped or rock bass, weighing three to seven pounds; the " jack " salmon, the bachelor perch, the white or drum perch, pickerel and cat. The white perch and buffalo are abundant in the Ohio River. Of cat there are three kinds- the Mississippi, the channel, and the mud or yellow. Of the first mentioned specimens have been caught in the Ohio River weigh- ing as much as 150 pounds. Cat fish and shovel fish are still plen- tiful. They are much alike in their appearance, and in the quality of their flesh. A few native carp may be found in the tributaries to the Ohio. The bream, or "tin mouth," is a ravenous, speckled, flat fish sometimes caught, but it is not a fine game fish. It averages about two pounds in weight, and furnishes good food for the table. The redhorse is very rare. The two principal varieties of minnows are the silver-sides, or shiners, and the chubs. Nine other species exist here. Eels occur in respectable numbers, and there are a few river sturgeon and sun-fish. Considerable interest is now manifested in fish-farming, and in introducing new kinds of food fish. Both the General Government and the Commonwealth of Kentucky are aiding the citizens here in this noble enterprise, and the prospects of success are said to be encouraging. The German carp was first introduced into Daviess County in 1880, and this fish has been known here to attain a 18 2973 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. weight of one pound and a length of fourteen inches within nine months. Many applications were made for fry in the winter of 1881-'2, but the Government could not supply the demand until the following fall, when MIr. Geo. V. Triplett received about forty lots of twenty each, and distributed them to the applicants. Some persons say they do not like the taste of this fish, but its advocates claim that a failure in the cooking must have been the cause of the trouble. The receipt for preparing them is soinewhat peculiar. California salmon and Potomac shad, planted in this county, are beginning to weigh about two pounds. Among the useless or noisome fish, the gar (fresh-water gar) is still abundant, as it probably ever will be. Occasionally an " alli- gator gar" is caught in the Ohio River, sometimes as much as five feet long. Dog-fish, gourd-seed or grinnell, the skipjack, suckers and a few more unimportant fish are found. WILD BEES and honey were abundant during the " wild " days of Daviess County's career. The old settlers all have experiences to relate in connection with bee-hunting and discovery of large yields of honey. For ten or fifteen years past scarcely a bee-tree has been found. ,-I 274 CHAPTER XIII. METEOROLOGY. The climate of this region is very pleasant most of the year, and well calculated for the fullest development of all the common crops of this country. There has not been kept within the limits of Daviess County what is called a " meteorological station, " but we are exceedingly fortunate in being offered the use of an extraordi- nary diary, faithfully kept by Mr. Joseph Thomas, of Owensboro, for about thirty years, commencing with Jan. 22, 184-, the Monday after his first marriage. This diary is a marvel of a daily record of events, of the weather, and of fine penmanship and correct spelling. Little did he think, thirty-eight years ago, that he would live to see the substance of it or any part of it in print like this, in a large book! As he generally kept his thermometer in an unoccupied room in the house, or in the entrance hall, about ten to fifteen degrees must be subtracted from the figures in the first part of the following record, for the winter months, to obtain the true temperature out of doors. We have selected and compiled from the diary; to print all of it would make nearly two volumes the size of this. The war record and miscellaneous matters appear elsewhere in this work. For the purpose of this chapter we give only twenty-two years (1844-1865), which is abundant to show the nature of the climate of Daviess County. DIARY OF JOSEPH THOMAS. 1844. Jan. 22.-The winter up to this date has been one of unusual mildness, having had no snow of any depth or any ice sufficient to skate on. For two months it has rained almost incessantly, and the river has been very high, for the season. Jan. 25.-Became much colder and by Jan. 27, the ice was hard enough to skate on. By Jan. 29, it was thick enough to put uip. Jan. 30.-Ice melting rapidly, for a few hours. (275) HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Thermometer during the last ten days of the month, 200 to 61j0. Four days were cloudy, with rain or snow. Feb. 1.-Becomes warm, with hard rain. Feb. 2-10.-UDpleasantly cool, with rain. Feb. 11-21.-Very pleasant for the season. Beautiful spring weather the last five days. Feb. 25-29.--Changeable, but averaging warm for this time of the year. River falling, but still navigable for large boats. Thermometer during the month, 29 to 670. March.-This month came in stormy-high winds and rain. The first day was very warm. March 1-14.-Disagreeable; roads muddy; river high enough for large boats in the channels. March 14-21.-Variable-snow, rain, and fair weather. March 21-27.-Pleasant and warm. River falling rapidly. March 27-29.-Rainy. March 30.-Snow covered the ground in the morning, but was melted away by 2 P. m. March 31.-Clear and cool. Thermometer for the month 370 (on the 21st) to 750 (on the 25th). April.-1-14, pleasant, warm, clear; roads in good order. River falling, but high enough for large boats. Seven steamers passed up in one hour. Trees put forth their leaves, and by the middle of the month they were in full foliage. Health of the community good. Thermometer, 420 to 850. May.-1-2, cloudy and warm; 3-7, clear; 8-15, mixed; 15-17, rainy; 17-31, occasional showers; worms destructive to crops; 25, lightning struck the court and, market house, but did little injury, although the latter was filled with men. Thermometer, 60 to 90. June.-1-13, variable; 14-22, rainy, and to 31, very rainy and warm. River falling. Thermometer 60 to 88, but seemingly hot- ter during the rainy portion of the month, on account of the op- pressiveness of the atmosphere. Mississippi higher than at any time since 1785. July.-This month came in rainy and hot; roads muddy; river high, the bar beincg covered; 20-31, river falling fast. Thermome- ter during the month 730 to 944O. Atmosphere much of the time oppressive. 276 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. August.-1-10, hot, the three o'clock observations of the ther- mometer indicating 850 to 900; clear and calm; river still in-good order; 8-17, air more bracing; 18-31, slightly cooler. September.-1-10,pleasant; river rising a little, and the Fawn resumes regular trips; 18-20, hot; 21, cool; 22-30 , river low again and no boats going up; can walk dry-shod from French Island to Indiana. Pigeons flying. The month generally pleasant. Mercury 490 to 920. October.-Pleasant. Some frost. Large boats running. Five foggy and ten cloudy days. Thermometer 380 at 7 A. M. to 800 at 3 P. M. November.-1-10, clear and pleasant; 10-12, rain, which was much needed. Large boats running. Extremes of thermometer (7 A. M. to 8 P. m. observations), 330 to 810. December.-1-8, stormy,-high winds and rain; 9-14, clear, but not very cold; 15 to 31, generally calm, and nothing remarkable. -Extremes in thermometrical observations, 180 to 650. 1845. January.-Calm, pleasant and healthful; river in good order; 11, snow deep enough for sleighing. Thermometer1 32 to 68. No -ice yet of sufficient thickness for storage. February.-]-9, cool, 270 to 500; 10-12, warmer; 13-19, cooler; 20-22, warm; 23-28 moderate. River in good stage; no ice thick enough for storage during the whole winter. Thermometer during the month ranged from 2710 to 640. On the 14th a most beautiful rainbow. arch.-Thermometer, 320 to 730. River high. Public health good. A pleasant month. April.--1-15, clear and bracing; 15-18, rainy, but river low and falling; 19-31, dry, and river very low; large boats not running. 'Thermometer ranged from 390 on the 8th to 90 on the 24th. May.-1, warm,-72; 2-9, cooler,-49 to 720; river rising slowly; 10-31, warm and generally clear; river falling again. Health of people good. June.-1-9, warm and dusty; thermometer at 3 P. m., 80 to 930; 9, hard rain; but little tobacco set out; crops promise to be light; river commences to rise, and by the 25th attained a good stage. Extremes of temperature, 63 to 930; 19--28, several rains. July.-1-7, pleasant; 8-31, hot. Four rainy days during the nonth; most of the days, flying clouds. River fell during the 277 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. month, luntil it got very low. Crops more promising. Average heat during the month, at three P. m., 851'; extremes, 620 to 94. August.-Pleasant; streets dusty until the 8th, when at seven P. M. occurred one of the hardest rains ever witnessed here, with wind and lightning. Trees and light buildings were blown down. Average heat during the month, 810. Only the smallest boats can ply the river. For clearness, cloudiness and fogs the month was about equally characterized. September.-1-a, intensely hot, the 3d being the hottest day of the season,-89, 950, 90. Cool nights set in. People becoming sickly. A number of deaths of eminent citizens. Two or three frosts during, the month. Extremes of temperature, 320 (during the night of the 21st) to 950 on the afternoon of the 3d. October.-Pleasant; temperature, 420 at 7 A. m. on two mornings to 78 on the afternoon of two days. River in good order. Public health better. A fine, dreamy Indian summer. November.-Indian summer nearly all the month,-frosty mornings and sunny days; 4, heavy frost and ice; 23, sudden cold; 26, snow; 27, 19 out doors; 28, 30 below zero out doors; 29, 30, very cold. December.-1-8, cold; 9, warmer; 10-18, moderate; ice prevents navigation; 19-27, very cold; 28-31. much milder; 31, ice running out. Ice got to be three or four inches thick during the month. 1846. Januarv.-Ice heavy enough to put in store, but a part of the month the Ohio was navigable. No storms. Record of temper- ature omitted. February. -Ditto. March.-Nothing noteworthy. April.-Temperature 500 to 74. A little rain, but no storms. May.-1-13, rain almost every day, and river rising; 14-31, warm and cloudy, but not much rain. June.-Rainy and river in good order. Thermometer, 610 to 880. July.-1-14. hotter and hotter; 15, cooler; 16, 17, fire necessary; warmer again until 28, when it was very hot; 29-31, hot. A fair amount of rain during the month, but river went down until the 28th, when it commenced to rise rapidly. August.-Hotter until the 7th (940), then steadily warm until the 24th, when it dropped to 680 at 7 A. M., then warm until the close of the month. River very low. 278 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. The summer, on the whole, was very wet-not a week of clear weather since spring. Crops, tolerable; corn, very fine; tobacco, poor and worm-eaten; 'eaches, large and abundant; melons, poor; garden vegetables, fine. General good health prevailing. September.-Warm, 8th and 9th particularly hot, and 16th a sudden cooling. People unusually healthy. Latter part of the month very dry. River low. October.-This month came in pleasant, and continued so. on an average, throughout the month. The first frost of the season came on the 18th, and was a severe one. Some ice duringl the remainder of the month. Indian summer, especially the 24th and after. Navigation was stopped by low water about the imiddle of the month; between the 22d and 25th it rose so as to be navigable for any boat, and by the last of the month it wvas almost as low as ever. November.-1-2, rainy; 3-17, clear. hazy, cloudy and warmer, except 5th, when there was frost; 18-20, rainyy; 21, frost; 24, first snow, which the wet ground melted as fast as it came; 25, wintry morning; 26-30, cold and cloudy. December.-Exceedingly imild; 2, 7, 8 and 16, rainy; very little clear weather; the latter part of the month warm enough to sit without a fire. 1847. January.-1, raining and blowing in the morning ; cleared off ban noon; 1-6, mild; 6-12, very cold ; all the ice-houses in town filled wvith ice at least four inches thick; 10, ground covered with snow; 1l, 9' below zero out of doors; 15, 610 to 690; 16, 310 in house; 19, 20 above zero out of doors; 23, thawing fast; 26, splendid ice. six inches thick. Februarv.-Nothing remarkable in the weather. Mareh.-1-10, rather cool; 11, heavy snow, which probably would have measured twelve or fifteen inches in depth had it not been thawed away by the warm and wet ground; it snowed all day without intermission; river very high -21, more snow; 25-31, very warmn for the season,-35' to 756; 31, no gardening done yet. Roads impassable. April.-Cool; spring backward; wet; IS, ice in the morning; latter part of the m1on1th dry. May.-River fallint,, weatherconstantly rainless, and the ground is baked and the roads dusty; 3, white frost; 8, very cool, 60' the warmest part of the day. 279 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Jnne.-Pleasant enough; rain sufficient for the crops, which are promising, although corn is not over knee high in many places; 8, 23, 26, 27, oppressively warm. July.-Hlot as usual, the 13th being oppressively hot; 10-20, dry; 21-27, occasional showers. August.-Pleasant,-some warm and some cool weather; 880 the highest; latter part of the month, very little rain. Crops good. September.-Unsurpassably pleasant as to temperature, but very dry and dusty; 15 and 29, frost. October.-Pleasant; heavy frost on the 13th, 15th and 27th; river very hill by the 26th. Public health good. November.-7, thermometer 760 and a severe storm; otherwise the month was variable but without extremes; several rainy days; 25, snowed. Decernber.--1-14, pleasant; river very high; 14, snowed all day, reaching a depth of 16 inches; drifted some places to a depth of four feet; 14-31, cool; river falling. 1848. January.-1-8, warm and disagreeable, but the public health good; 9, very cold; 10, only 2 above zero; the rest of the month clear and moderately cold. February.-No extremes. March.-Nothing remarkable. Gardens made during the middle of the month. The first week was cold, but from the 10th onward it grew warmer. April.-Two or three light frosts; otherwise nothing remarkable. May.-Thermometer 510 to 860. Several hard rains. June.-Thermometer 590 to 89. Rain moderate. July. -58 to 89. Very wet; wheat much injured. August.-Most of the month cloudy; middle portion sultry. Septemnber.-Half cloudy. One hard rain. October.-18, first ice. Weather average for the season through- out the month. November.-32 to 55'. A little rain on the 4th, considerable on the 11th, and the first snow on the 25th. December.-First half of 'the month rainy, muddy, chilly; 9, Panther Creek higher than ever known. 280 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. 1849. January. -Still wet and disagreeable, near the freezing point. February. -Thermometer 10 to 530 in the hall, averaging rather cool. About the 19th some fine ice was stored. March.-Very fair spring weather. Gardens made early. April.-Frost on 2d and 15th. May.-Temperature in the open air, 560 to 790; rain rather limn- ited. June. -Sultry; rain abundant. July. -9 and 10 the sultriest days. Some rain the first part of the month, and but little toward the last,-which is the average for this month. Wheat crop ruined by rust. August.-A hot month, with a very little rain. September.-Dry and warm; river low. October.-1-5, fair and comfortable; 6, disagreeable, raw; 13-31, beautiful weather. November.-Thermometer g2 77. Dry autumn; beautiful weather. Decemnber.-Thermometer 100 in an unoccupied room in the house, to 520; 10, snow; 2 and 15. drizzle; 21 and 28, rain; 30, snow. A rather cool, raw month. 1850. January.-13, snow eight inches deep; 7, 15, 18, 20, 24 and 25, rain. February.-3, very cold; 4, mercury down to 7 in the house; 13, 14, sleet and rain, and roads in an awful condition; 14, heavy snow; 25, hard rain; 28, storm. March.-1-8, cool, windy and raw; 10, some ice; 17, hail fell at 4 P. M., as large as partridge eggs; 22, rainy and cold; 23-25, ice; 26, snow three inches deep; 27, 28, thick ice; 29-31, more spring- like. April.-7, heavy frost; 13, still wintry; 14, ice covered with snow; 18-23, cold rains. May.-1-11, cool; 6, frost; 12-15, heavy rains; spring backward; farmers planting but little. June.-1, cool; 2-8, much warmer; 26, very hot day; wheat rust- ing; 23-29, most lovely nights. July.-1-4, hot; 5-6, oppressively hot; 6, hard rain; 14, light rain nearl all day; 27-31, showery. Wheat crop ruined by rust. 281 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. August.-Hot; 9, 13, 14, 18, 20, 21, sultry and tedious; 10, at- 3 P. Mi., a terrific storm, the wind a hurricane, doing considerable damage; 27-28, rather too cool in the morning to sit without a fire. September. -Warm; 4, heavy rain in the night; 14, river very low. October.-26, ice and frost; 31, warm, 69. November. -8, heavy frost and ice; 16, first snow, but light; 26, severe thunder-storm; 27, more rain. Month average for temper- ature. River rising. December.-5, sleet; 7, snow; 8, very cold; 12, rain; 14, misty; 19, drizzly; 22, rain all day; 28, drizzly. River high and rising. 1851. January.-1-5, moderate; 7-9, spring-like; 10-29, moderate; 28, stormy; 30-'31, cold; good ice. February .-1-7, moderate; 8, 9, spring weather; 10-28, average; 17, etc., river rising 23, hard storm; 27, rain and hail. 1March.-1-6, raw; 7-9, windy; 8, ice; 12, frost; 15, beautiful rainbow; 25, frost middle of the month, trees budding; last part, warm. April.-1, warm; 4 and 12, rain; 15, light frost; 21, cold; 22, frost and thin ice; 30, cool. Frequent showers during the month. May.-I, chilly; 2, heavy frost and thin ice; many things dam- aged; 6, heavy frost again; peaches nearly all killed; 10, warm; 16, very hot; 17, hard rain; 20-31, dry and warm. Nearly every kind of fruit was destroyed during the month. June.-1-12, dry; 13 and 15, rain; 30, hot during the day, but so cool at night as to make fire comfortable; 20-30, dry and exceedingly dusty. July.-1, cool; 1-6,warm; 7 and 8, very sultry; 13-15, very hot and oppressive; rest of the month hot, with considerable rain 28- and 29. August.-i-10, warm; 11-17, hot, the 17th being the hottest day of the season-950; 18-31, moderate to hot, with a little rain. Septernber.-1-14, hot; river low; 15-24, moderate; 25-30, cool; 25 and 27, frost; 29, beautiful northern lights. October.-Average to 23d, when there was heavy frost and ice; 13, 14, river rose a foot, but toward the last of the month fell to a very low point. Very dry autumn. 282 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. November.-5, river rising a little, but directly fell again; only two feet of water on the bar; 21, first snow fell-very slight; 27, rain; 29, heavy frost. December.-1-12, moderate; 13-27, cold, on the 17th being 10 below zero in the open air; 28-31, a little warner. 1852. January.-5, snow-storm all day; 10, snow again; 13, 20 below zero; 14, fine sleighing, snow six inches deep; 19, 130 below zero out of doors; peaches killed; 22, river closed; 29, first boat up since 19th; 30, shore ice broke. On the 1st the river rose three feet. A very cold and inclement month. Ice became six to eight inches thick, and was beautifully clear. Skating was delightful. Snow lay on the ground fifteen days, a length of time not known for many years. February.-1, river rising very fast and full of ice; 4, spring day; 6, river clear of ice; 5, 10, 15, 20, 21, 22, 28, rain; 15, hail;. 28, snow also. March.-Middle of the month. delightful and gardening going on; 18, cool and unpleasant; 22, frost; latter part of the month warm and showery. River rose and fell two or three times, but averaged a good stage. April.-1-8, disagreeable; 9, heavy frost; 10-27, rather cool; 28-30, warm. Whole month rainy; 13, etc., river fell; 25, very high; 29, falling. May.-21, slight frost. June.-9, cool enough for fire; 10-17, very dry; 18, plenty of rain. July.-7, the sultriest day of the month. Last part of the month, crops suffering from drouth. August.-First half of the month, very dry, damaging crops; last half, plenty of rain. September.-13, first frost, slight; 20, rained all day; 26, frost; last of the month river went down very low. October.-13, heavy frost; river very low all the month; 23, dew so heavy that the trees dripped; 18, etc., beautiful Indian summer. November.-1, frost; 8, frost and ice; 18, first snow to cover the ground, but soon melted; 24, rainbow; 7, river rising fast and 19, falling fast; 23-27, ''horrible " weather. December. -Dreary; river high. 283. HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. 1853. January.-Warm and wet; river high. February.-1-4, warm; rest of the month moderate, some rain, sleet, etc. March.-19, heavy frost; 29, frost; some rain, drizzling, etc., and on the whole a rather disagreeable month. April.-13, trees budding; 15, heavy frost; 21, hot, 810; 22-30, continues warm during the day but cool nights; 26, frost. River rising all the month. May.-1-10, cool, fires needed every day; 19, very cool; 20- 31, dry and dusty. June.-Hot, especially the latter part of the month, an unprece- dented drouth prevailing; crops dried up, except that corn looked well and wheat was line. River only three feet on the bar, the lowest ever known in June. July.-2, the showery season commenced. August.-28, slight frost. Fruits plentiful this season. September. -Nothing unusual in the weather. October.-3, 4, frost; 11, heavy frost; 24, ice; 27, cold and driz- zly; 29, fine frost; river low; 18, lovely Indian summer. December.-12, etc., beautiful weather; 18, first snow. 1854. January.-23, 50 below zero. River full of ice most of the month and high. February.-Nothing remarkable. March.-5-10, an unprecedented amount of rain fell; 8, some -trees showing buds; 11, thin ice; 17, peach-trees in bloom; 18, some ice; 26 and 28, a little ice again. River very high. April.-1-3, ice; 18, heavy frost and ice; 21-27, warm. May.-River in fine order; weather usual. June.-River falling; 23--30, very hot and oppressive. July.-Hot; average heat at three r. hr., 901. Dry and dusty. August.-1-2, the two hottest days of the season,-94 to 98; rest of the month hot, especially after the 24th. Average for the month atthree, r. ir., 91.10. Still dry; everything burnt up; no grass. River as low as ever known to be. -284 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. September.-4, thermometer 991O, hottest day ever observed here to this date. Hot and dry all the month. Corn crops short; hay, oats and wheat very fine; tobacco fair. October.-1, a good rain, the first of importance since June 2 8 the corn crops are short; 5, first [rost. River exceedingly low, but raised about three feet near the last of the month. - November.-12, first snow, ground covered; 26, river rising a little. December.-5, ice on creeks strong enough to bear one up; ice three inches thick on the creeks and ponds; 11, heaviest frost ever witnessed,-white on trees all day; 12, trees still white with frost, and constant fog; 1S-31, cold, with some rain at the warmest periods; 8, about six feet water on the bars; 17, river down again; 26, seven feet on the bars. 1855. January.-1, river in fair order, but fell toward middle ot the- month. Lovely weather about the 16th, but the month generally was cold; 23, snow three inches deep; 30-31, ice four inches thick. February.-Cold; river full of ice. March.-1, beautiful; 15, river high. First half of the month, over six inches of rain. April.-14, trees buddingfinely; river in fine order; 25, ther- mometer reached 900. June.-River in fine order; a fine crop ot wheat; 18, a hurri- cane. July.-River well up Garden vegetables abundant and good 16, high wind and rain, prostrating much of the corn. September.-1-4, very we;; weather. Most of the month hot. October.-7, frost and ice; 12, frost; 14-15, lovely weather; 18, dusty; 25, heavy frost and ice; 29-31, warm and delightful. A wet month. November.-15, 740, warmest day of the month; 22-24, chilly. December.-27, ice four inches thick. Some warm weather and lovely days this month. 1356. January.-4, 3 'below zero; ice seven anda half inches thick 5 and 8, 7, below zero; 9, 160 below; 10, 12' below; 17, snow melted off; 26, wind, snow and hail; 31, snow four inches deep. River full of ice and no navigation this month. 285 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. February.-1,snowy and sleighing; 3, 160 below zero out of (loors; 4, 233 below zero; skating on the river; 5, 140 below; 9, thaw; 11, sloppy; 19, thawing, and snow nearly all gone; 20, more snow; 23, snow gone; 25-29, river full of ice, but navigation com- mences. Roads muddy. larch.--1, rain, sleet and snow; 2, snow all gone and river clear of ice; 4, roads drying out; blustering; 10, thermometer 120; 1- 20, river falling; 27, snowy, chilly day; 31, no signs of spring. Farmers complaining of want of rain, and tobacco too dry to strip. April.-5, spring-like day. Dry month. River in good order. flay.-River at good stage all the month; 30-31, slight frost. June.-Dry, river low, and latter part of the month hot. July.-15, very hot-940; 16, 960; 17, 990; whole month dry and crops burning up. August.-Hot, and a moderate quantity of rain. September.-1-17, hot days and nights; 19, river very low; 22, light frost; 24 and 25, heavy frost, injuring the tobacco crop very much; 25, river lower than ever. October.--I, heavy frost; 1-12, very dry and dusty; 13, rain; 17, Indian summer. November.-Dry. XVoods on fire. River low. December.- -Nothing remarkable. 1857. January.-8, ice four to six inches thick; 19, 120 below zero- -coldest day known up to this time; 22, 80 below zero; 26, snow melting awav; 28-30, skating on the river. Febritary.-3, ice broke; 8, river rising fast; 10, coldest day of this month: river high and fall of ice, in small pieces; 13, river clear of ice; and 18, falling fast. Alarch.-9, coldest day of this month; 19, river becoming very low; no packet running; 30, dry weather; 31, shower. April.-Remarkable weather; 1-21, fires necessary; 2, 9, 10, 20, frost and ice; 17, snow; fruits and young tobacco generally killed. The last few days it warmed up some and vegetation started. May.-7, frost; 15-20, cold enough to have fires all day; tobacco set out acain the latter part of this month. July.-3, fire necessary again, in the morning; 11, 17, 18, 19, :25, hot. 286 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. August.-2, 8, 11,16, 24, thermometer 90 to 95O. River in good order the first part of the month, then went down the re- mainder of the month. September.-13 and 14, hot and sultry; 24, light frost. River low, and first half of the month dry and dusty. October.--11, 80; 17, frost and ice; 20, heavy frost. Dry un- til the last week of the month. November.-Rather cool. December.-Yery little winter weather. Some rain. 1858. January.-A very open winter. Corn crop turns out poorly, on account of the freeze in November. Weather has been so wet that many farmers are not half done gathering their corn. Tobacco crop very large. February.-A disagreeable month; 1, snow three inches deep; a chilling, disagreeable atmosphere; 2, snow nearly all melted off; 10, thermometer 30 in the hall,-coldest day of the winter so far; 11, ice not over an inch thick; 21, one of the dreariest of days; 23, ice three inches thick; 27, snow almost gone; 28, sleet, snow, etc. March.-6, ground covered with ice; 8, river in good order; 14, summer-like day; 16, everybody gardening; 29, frost. April.-7, trees putting out leaves; 26, chilly; 27, frost and ice endangering fruit. May.-11, very wet and disagreeably cold; 12, frost; 20, fire necessary. Farmers complained of too much rain the first part of the month. River very high. June.-2T, thermometer 98; river falling fast. A wet month, and oats for the first time in this region ruined by rust, and wheat badly damaged by it. August.-A hot month until the 26th; after this time chills were prevalent. Wheat small and shriveled. Not enough oats in the country for seed. Corn and tobacco look well. River low October.-8, 9, frost and ice. November.-1, raining. During the month were several drizzly dismal days. December.-Average for the season. 287 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. 1859. January.-Extremes; coldest day, 22d, when the thermometer indicated 4 during the night; warmest day, 20th,-thermnometer- 550 at 3, r. m. February.-Temperature 120 to 720; some rain; 23, river higher than since 1854. March.-392 to 750; 31, heavy frost. Average amount of rain and snow during-the month. April.-4 and 5, frost and ice; 15, extraordinarily windy; 18 and 24, heavy frost. A very wet month. May.-Thermometer 530 to 890; 10, roses in bloom. River fell to a low stage. June.-Last week of the month very hot. Good wheat harvest. Dusty about the 9th. July.-13, heat 1010; 14, 991'; 18, 100; 19, 99. Roads dusty about the 12th, but some rain during the month. River get- ting low. August.-Usual weather for the month. September.-2, aurora borealis very brilliant; 21, fire neces- sary. October.-6, 7, 10, 19, 28, 30 and 31, frost; 25 and 26, warm. November.-3, beautiful Indian summer; 12, temperature fell 38 in twelve hours. December.-7, 30; 8, 60 below zero, and ice three inches thick; 9, ice four to five inches thick; 20, snow seven and a half inches deep; 23, 110 below zero, ice sin river; 31, 50 by ther- mometer. 1860. January.-1, zero; 2, 1 below, rest of the month moderate; 10, roads muddy; 18, river very high. February.-1L zero; rest of month moderate. Some snowy, rainy or drizzly and disagreeable days. March.-Very early spring; 26, peaches mostly killed. April.-25, frost, and a cold day. May.-21, storm, especially up the river. June.-26 and 30, hottest days of the month-950. July.-10, heat 102-o, hottest day evernoticed since 1843, and perhaps much earlier; 22, 102. Month averaged very hot and dry. i 288 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. August.-3 and 4, heat 100. Hot month, and a little rain. Extremely dusty about the middle of the month. September.-4 and 7, heat 95'. Some rain during the month. October.-12-15, frosty mornings. A month of good October weather. November.-1, first snow; 9 and 20, chilly and dismal; 26, rained uninterruptedly all day; otherwise the month was average. December.-30, 31, coldest days of the month-12 and 220. A little snow and rain occasionally during the month. 1861. January.-1, clear, calm and lovely. February.-A month of moderate temperature and considerable rain; several days were lovely. March.-24, peach-trees blooming. April.-20, frost. May.-Good month for crops. Hail on the night of the 12th. June.-Good month for crops. July.-Warm as usual. August.-1-fot and sultry. September.-Warm. October.-23, frost; 28, first biting frost. November.-12, thermometer reached 800; 29, snow covered the ground. 1862. January.-A steady, cool month, without much freezing, but with considerable fog, mist and drizzling. On the 13th there were two inches of snow. February.-Open. Winter passed, and no ice put up. March.-1, disagreeable; 2, rainy; 6, snow an inch and a half deep; 7, snow nearly gone; 11, fine day and roads drying up fast; 17, heavy frost. River high. Spring late. April.-6, heavy frost. A wet, backward spring. May.-Dry and dusty until about the 20th. June.-12, roads dusty; 28, farmers complaining that it is tows wet. July.-Good weather for the crops. August.-Becoming dry, and the river low. September.-Pleasant weather, but dry and the river low. Roads exceedingly dusty. 19 289 2HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. October.-A little rain; 12, light frost; 20-23, heavy frosts; 21, Indian sumnmer; 25, snowed all afternoon, over two inches deep. November.-A rather cool and cloudy month; 14, river has risen about two feet. December.-Some rain and disagreeable weather; 31, beautiful dcay. 1863. January.-15, snow twelve inches deep; 16, thirteen inches fall, deepest ever known here; eighteen inches deep in some parts of the county; 18-21, snow mostly melted away; 17, river rising rapidly. February.-4, ice two to two and a half inches thick. March.-1-13, wet and cool; 14-23, nice spring weather; 26, ice; 29, cold day; 13, river nearly over Indiana; 31, rain, wind, sleet, snow and sunshine. April.-1-3, cold and blustering; 4, frost; rest of the month, fine for L,,ardening(. Mav.-Drv and warm; rains on the 29th and 30th. June.-16, river only three and a half feet on the bars. JuAv. --Characteristic. Aulgnst.-30, frost, ruining a great deal of the tobacco. September.--l9-20, frost, but tobacco not injured much; 29, 30, river very low. October.--6, heavy frost, 6-13, dismal; 24-26, frosts; 29, river rising. JDecem oer.-6-13, dismal; 16, severe thunder, lightnilng hail and an earthquake; 25, river in good order; 31, stormy night. 1864. January.-1, 60 below zero; 2, 1P below; 4, much ice in the river; 5, ice six inches thick in the ponds; 9, 6 below zero again; 28, boats running, the first since the 4th. A cold month. Febrnary.--Cold and disagreeable. March.-1, snow about one and a half inches deep; rest of the month nothing noteworthy. April.-19 and 20, frost and ice. Mlay.-3 and 12, frost. June.-Hot; dry the latter part of the month; crops suffering; tobacco crop cut down apparently one half Cut-worms bad. July.-9, river quite low; a dry month. 29() HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. August.-Rain, increasing during the month. Good navigation by the last week. September.-19, first frost, light. October.-9, frost and ice. December.-9, snow, two or three inches deep; 12, ice three inches thick; 18, heavy fog all day; packets laid up at Owensboro; 30, snow three inches deep. 1865. January.-Some snow. A steady, cool, but not very cold month; 26-31, river too full of ice for boats to run. February.-Weather not remarkable. Mareh.-River very high,-over into Indiana. A wet and back- ward spring; 30, peach and plum trees in bloom. April.-11, a great deal of rain; farmers worried; 14, frost; 20- 30, river falling. May.-12, heavy frost and river very high; 14, over into In- diana; 19, falling. June.-1-3, dry and dusty; showers during the rest of the month. July.-22, river rising fast; 25, crops injured by hard rains. August.-30, river only three feet on the bars. September.-15, oppressively warmn weather; 19, chilly. October.-Nothincg remarkable. November.-3, first biting frost, but not severe; 5, first ice. Decemnber.--15, coldest day of the month, 90 in hall, and ice over two and a half inches thick; last week, river high and rising. TEMPERATURE. The annual mean of temperature for May, June, July, Anoust and September together, as observed at Louisville 1841 to 1871, was 560. The highest temperature in Owensboro in 1881, was 1031', and the lowest, 15' below zero, during the following winter. In the early settlement of the valley of the Ohio the weather in April and May was usually mild and fine, so that corn-planting was generally finished during the first week of April. Of later years the temperature of these months has chanced, so that severe frosts in May are not uncommon. May 13 to 18, 1834, there were lihrd frosts every morning. Mlay 5, 1803, a snow fell in Kentucky about four inches deep, followed by hard frosts for two or three nights; the fruits were all killed. 291 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. O0IO FLOODS. The first " flood " in the Ohio IRiver of which we have an authen- tic account since the valley was settled by the whites, was in March, 1774, when it rose about sixty feet above low-water mark. The second was in the winter of 11S9-'90, when the settlement at Columbia, Ohio, was overflown to such a height that only one house remained out of water. The third flood was in 1808. The fourth occurred in February, 1832, and Nvas the most disastrous ever wit- nessed by white nmen. From the seventh to the nineteenth of February the water continued to rise until, at Covington, it reached the height of sixty-three feet above low-water mark. Much damage was done to property. The fifth great freshet in the Ohio River occurred in December, 1847, and at Louisville it reached a point 'only nine inches below that of 1832, and at Maysville only six inches below. A great deal of property was washed away, thou- sands of hogs were drowned in their pens, and a number of persons lost their lives. TILE FLOOD OF 1883. The following account we quote from the 4ttarday Post: "The present generation has the honor to see the mighty Ohio at the height of its majesty. Even the oldest inhabitant remem- bers not the time when the waters came down from the head of La Belle Riviere in such mighty volume as during the past week. One by one the records of all previous floods have been marked out by the great rise of 1883, and in succession the notches reached by the flood-waves of 1867, 1S53, 1S47, 183S and 1808 have receded from view. This is the record of the waters above and may be taken as a safe criterion of the extent of the flood at this point. Though it might seem an easy undertaking, yet it is a matter of difficulty to ascertain the exact figures concerning the previous high-wvater marks at Oweusboro. In recent years the entire river front has been changed. Even in the memory of the present gen. eration the time was when all of Front street, now washed in places to a width of only a few feet, was a broad campus, fringed with trees. Where the levee now is was once circus grounds, affording room to pitch the largest canvas. The levee front has been changed from time to time, and thus old marks wiped away, or their reli- ability destroyed. After diligent inquiry among many of Owens- boro's oldest residents, our reporter feels authorized in the statement that the recent stage of the Ohio at this point was the 292 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. highest within the memory of any living being, save, perhaps, that of one, who thinks it was exceeded by the flood of 1808. Of the latter statement, though, there are no present marks to verify its authenticity. The flood of '32, just fifty-one years ago, has been heretofore quoted as the heaviest within the memory of any living person, but tfrom the evidence of those who should know here, and the reports from Rockport, where the marks are recorded on the bluffs, there is reason to pass over the horns to 1883. "All during the week the river banks have been lined with spec- tators, viewing the mighty expanse of seething waters into which the Ohio had merged itself. In fact, river topics have been the universal theme of conversation. The moisture that permeated the seeping banks seemed to communicate itself to everybody and everythitng. It checked business, commerce and traffic. Men, women, and children seemed drawn by an irresistible curiosity toward the river, and when they returned to the streets, would retrace their steps and again take their stand among the idle spec- tators. Many a child was led down to the water's edge by its nurse, so that in after years it can point back through, memory's haze to the great flood of '83. Deep as was the tale of woe which the great roll of waters told, yet the crowds that assembled on the banks were not without their ludicrous incidents. If there is anything that can move a man to the borders of the miraculous it is a flood. It was edifing to hear the words of wisdom which flowed from the mouths of the multitudes, on matters heretofore within the peculiar province ot history. Men iwhose fithers' fathers where Iot here in I808, quoted the family records to prove the exact height of the flood in that mem- orable +ear. The water-marks of 1847 were freely disputed by scores of eye-witnesses who were not then born. 1852 and its great rise were quickly disposed of and laid away labeled " settled." The rise of '637 was familiar to everybody who oot started in the debate at all; and doubtless a score of private marks were exhibited by persons who made them themselves, at the moment the tide reached its highest flood that year. Everybody will make his pri- vate bench-mark, noting the .height of the present flood, and doubt- less a stranger who visits the levee when the weaters subside will have a good reason to conclude from the countless hieroglyphs that it was constructed froni the remnants ot al Egyptian obelisk." It is a coincidence worthy of mnenrion that the days on which the river reached its highest in 1832 and 1883 were Feb. 17 in both years. 293 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Last week in February, 1882, the Ohio about as high as in 1867. Seven persons drowned at Green River Island. Nov. 8, 1832, snow fell eight or nine inches, and the Ohio River was closed by Dec. 1. Nov. 15, 1833, snow fell to the depth of six inches, and the weather was incessantly cold for several weeks. Nov. 15, 1835, snow was fifteen inches deep, and lasted until the middle of Janulary. MISCELLANEOUS. In February,. 1836, snow measured eighteen inches deep. In November, 1835, a snow seventeen inches deep accumnulated, which did not altogether melt away until about the first of April. In the early part of 1834 there was a hurricane near Whitesville- that did considerable damage. In 1844 a hurricane swept from the vicinity of Rockport down through the northeast corner of this county. But no lives were lost in either of the foregoing. The first week of January, 1879, was the coldest it had been for twenty-two years. On the 3d it was 10 below zero. - It was near zero for several days. The first week of September, that year, was characterized by very heavy rains. Crops throughout the county suffered immense damage,-probably cut down to about one half. The heaviest rainfall ever known in Northern Kentucky, in so short a time, occurred Dec. 9 and 10, 1847. The creeks and smaller streams rose so rapidly as, in some cases, to drive people in their night-clothes to the second story of their houses for safety. The annual average of rainfall in Kentucky from 1840 to 1870, inclusive, was 50.3 inches. The greatest fall in any one year was in 1865, being 60.69 inches, and the least was in 1856, which was 30 inches. The greatest amount of.water falling inside of four con- secutive hours occurred May 8, 1843, reaching, 4.37 inches in three and a half hours. 294 CHAPTER XIV. MISCELLANEOUS. COIRT-11OUSE. The first court was held in a log building, -probably a dwelling. The first regular court-house was a brick structure, erected about 1819-'20. By the year 1855 the county had so grown that a new building was needed; and accordingly a contract was let for erect- ing a new court-house, the work to be finished by Oct. 1, 1857; but it was not completed until 1858 or '9. It was partly occupied, however, in the winter preceding. Its size was 60 x 80 feet, and two stories high above the basement. This building was burned Jan. 6, 1865,Was described in Chapter VI., the " Civil War." Present Courtl-Ho use.-T his was built 1866-'S. on the old foun- dation, and of the same dimensions as the previous structure, only somewhat higher and differently ornamented. The original con- tract, with B. Tribble and W. McLoyd, was for 55,000; but the building, with all the finishings and heavy furniture, including bell and clock, actually did cost about 63,000. The new build- ing was occupied July 6, 1868. In October and November fol- lowing the clock was built, by a man from Boston, Mass., and the bell, weighing 1,100 pounds, was put up Nov. 27, the same fall. The iron fence around the public square was completed June 26, 1869, and the court-house, in all its furnishhngs and surroundings, was finished in the fall of 1869. JAIL. The first jail was a log building, spiked and finished in the usual way, erected about 1819-'20. Its location was on the corner of the p1ublic square near the present jail. The second jail was built of brick, by Mr. Feldpausch, con- tractor, and was located within twenty feet of the south line of the present court-house. The third and present jail building was commenced early in 1.361. The contract was let the previous year; in 1861 the first story was put up, and- the next year the second story was built, (295) HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. and the whole structure finished. The jailer's house was built during the war. PUBLIC SQUARE. This was laid out in the original survey of the town, and was deeded by Robert Triplett to the county for court-house purposes only. In the original deed is also the condition that the trustees of the town have a certain number of feet on the northeast corner of the square for a market-house. Since that time there have been three market-houses there, but they were all more or less eye- sores, and the last one was removed years ago. Forty feet have been cut off the south side for market grounds, and is partially devoted to that purpose now, the city scales beino( placed there since 1867. For a long time it was debated whether to build the city hall upon this ground. POOR-HOUSE. About 1845 Geo. W. Triplett was appointed by the County Court topturchase a piece of land for a poor farm. Accordingly he bought 170 acres about five miles southeast of Owensboro, on the Miller's Mill Road. I-e employed John Locke as the first man to take charge of 'the place. There was a two-story hewed- log house and a cabin or two on the premises. All went down during the war. In 1868 a frame house, with four rooms and a kitchen, for the family, and two other frame houses, with two rooms each, were built for paupers. One of these is situate on the southwest, and one on the southeast, of the main building, Stables, barns and other improvements were also made. This is about the extent of the improvements there at present. The annual average of paupers is about eight to ten. Colored paupers are kept by private individuals. All panters are let on special contracts, rates being fixed for each individual case. LOST RECORDS. The volumes in the county clerk's office, containing copies of wills prior to 1867. were lost or destroyed; and the originals of many were afterward brot.chit forward and recorded. Since that date the record is complete. 296 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. THlE FIRST WILL. "In the name of God, amen! "This 26th day of August, one thousand eight hundred and fifteen, I, John McFarland, of the County of Daviess, and State of Kentucky, being sick and weak in body, but of sound -mind and memory, do make, constitute, ordain and appoint this mny last will and testament, in the followingy manner and tormn; and- First, I order that all my just debts shall be punctually paid by my executors hereafter named. " Item, I order and devise that my well-beloved wife, Frances McFarland, shall have my negro man Sam, now in possession of Abner Lea, and my negro girl by the name of Tilly, one featler- bed and furniture, one horse and saddle, and my riding-chair, and two hundred and fifty dollars in cash, to her and her heirs forever; and I further order that my negro woman Tabb, and mry negro boy Johnston be the property of my said wife during her life, and at her death be equally divided amongst her children. "Item, I order and devise that my negroes, Toby, Lucy and child, now in possession of Lewis Odom, shall remain in his pos- session until his daughter, Rachel Odom, is eighteen years old; and then I order and devise that rny said negro Toby shall be equally divided between Elded Odom, Patsey Odom and Demey Odom, to them and their'heirs forever. "Item, I order and devise, when my granddaughter, Rachel Odom, comes to be eighteen years old, she shall then have my ne- gro woman Lucy and child (now in possession of Lewis Odom) to her and her heirs forever. "Item, I order and devise that my well-beloved daughter, Mar- garet Odom, have twenty dollars of my estate to her and her heirs forever. " Item, I order and devise that the County Court of Daviess shall appoint five disinterested persons, any three of them to act, to divide all the residue of miyr negroes into five equal shares, giv- ing one share to each of my five children, to wit: William TMcFar- land, Leah Glenn, Rachel McFarland, James McFarland and John. S. McFarland, putting the negroes that are now in possession of my son William McFarland and son-in-law William Glenn, upon lots by themselves, and add or diminish from the rest to make them equal; and it is my will that my son William and William Glenn have their choice to keep the lot that has the negroes on it that is 297 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. now in their possession; and if they refuse to take it they shall draw in some equitable way with my other three children as above named. "And I further order and devise that all the iesidue of my estate that I have not already given away, both real and personal,- be equally divided between my sons and daughters as hereinafter named-William McFarland, James McFarland, John S. McFar- land. Leah Glenn and Rachel McFarland, to them and their heirs forever. "And lastly, I constitute, order and appoint my well-beloved son, William McFarland, and my well-beloved son-in-law, William Glenn, executors to this my last will arid testament, and I do hereby revoke and disannul all other wills by me made, ratifying and confirming this only to be my last will and testament. "In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and affix my seal the day and year first above written. " JOHN McFARLAND. LSEAL.] "In presence of JOSEPH D. ATCFARLAND, T. D. ORSBORN." - There is among the archives of the Circuit Court Clerk's office of this county a patent for a grant of 6,000 acres of land, made by and bearing the signature of Patrick Henry, while Governor of Virginia. This patent bears date of 1745. The writing is legible and the paper on which it is written is in a remarkable state of preservation. MILITARY. Revolutionary WTar.-According to Collins's History of Ken-- tucky, the following Revolutionary soldiers were living in Daviess County in 1840, with the ages given:. Benjamin Field, aged eighty- four; Charles Hiansford, eighty; James Jones, seventy-nine, and Benijamin Taylor, eighty-four. A further notice is given of Mr. Field in the history of Murray Precinct, in this volume. Mr. Hansford was the father of William Hansford, now of Utica, this county. Mr. Jones used to reside a short distance above Owens- boro. War of 1812.-Of the soldiers of this war the following have been residents of Daviess County: Jo Daveiss, William Griffith (), Alvin Clark, Colonel Newton, Banister Wall, Abram Balee and many others. Clark was wounded in the battle of New Or-- 298 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. leans. For a sketch of Daveiss see Chapter V. Balee died in 1881. We clip the following from an Owensboro paper of January, 1883: Onle day this week "a messenger might have been seen leaving the grocery of Mr. R. B. Nunn, bearing a huge basket- ftul of the choicest wares from that wvell-known establishment. The basket and its acceptable contents were the gift of Mr. and Mrs. Nunn to Mr. Thomas I. Carrico, the only survivor in this section of the war of 1812, and it was sent to him on the anniversary of the battle of New Orleans, Jan. 8, (1815), at which Mr. Carrico and Mr. Nunn's father were present. Mr. Nick Lancaster added to the gift a decanter of fine old whisky, and it is needless to say that the recipient was truly happy at such kindly remembrance." Mexican War.-Geo. W. Triplett raised a comipany of 102 men for this war, but unwittingly at a time when the State of Kentuckv was not ready to receive and equip them. In September, 1847, under the last call, a special order was issued to convene the militia of the County, and on the 15th. they were accordingly mustered and marched into the court-house to listen to addresses and to volunteer. Decius McCreerv and Will- iam Bristow wvere particularly active in raising a company, which, on immediately organizing, elected the former their Captain and the latter their First Lieutenant. Win. P. D. Bash was elected "Ensigmn," or Second Lieutenant; I. P. Waslhburne, Third Lieuten- ant, and H. Senour, Orderly Sergeant. This company numbered about 100, and part of them were from Ohio and Hancock counties. Being accepted by Governor Owsley, they left Owensboro on the steamer Meteor Oct. 2; went to the field of carnage and did valiant service. They were with GeneraL Scott on his march to Vera Cruz. Some of Daviess County's volunteers were probably under the command of General Joseph Lane, Major John C. Breckenridge and Lieutenant-Colonel Ward. These old Mexican war veterans used to meet in Oweusboro annually for re-unions. Among them was Captain E. C. Berry, from Washington County, who died here. Of the fore-mentioned, Mr. Bush is the only one living, who is now a lawyer at Frank- fort. Captain W. J. Taylor, now living on the forks of Panther Creek, is a Mexican veteran, but was not a member of the above company. C. 0. Clements, of Knottsville, was another soldier in that war. 299 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Captain Decins McCreery was a brother of ex-Senator T. C. Mc. Creery. He arrived home here July 26, 1848, but died in Arkansas in 1865. Two of his sons are now living in that State, and two in Texas. State OGua,,ds, 1859.-A company of State Guards was organized in Oweusboro in 1859, with J. Hi. McHenry, Captain. They met for drill, obtained some arms and uniforms, and were on the point of obtaining more when the war camie on and broke up the organ- ization. Captain MlcHenry was selected by Governor Morehead, April 9, 1858, by lot, along with nine other Captains and their companies for service in Utah. He raised and organized a company, but the threatened trouble in Utah ended before he was called into service. CAPITAL PUNISHMENT. Collins's History of Kentucky says "But two cases of hanging have occurred in the history of the [Daviess] county, a negro mau for rape, in 1838, and Curtis Richardson, Nov. 1, 1854, for murder." Tie latter had murdered a man near KTnottsville, and was executed on a hill in the southeastern part of Owensboro, since known as " Hangman's Hill." lie had been famous for killing men, and seemed to know from the start that he would continue in his career of crime until he should meet with a violent death either at the hands of the law or otherwise. In earlier life he witnessed the ex- ecution of some criminals up the river, amid remnarked on the occa- sion that he would be hung himself some day. Hle undoubtedly inherited gross and violent passions, and his attorneys in his last trial endeavored to mitigate his punishment by proving that he had a decided mania for homicide. I-e actually seemed to have some ambition to show himself off on the scaffold before a large assembly. Thomas Landruin was the Sheriff who executed the sentence. The negro above referred to was a slave belonging, to MNr. Sbauntee. The scaffold from which he was hung was erected near where St. Stephen's (Catholic) Church now stands. He was executed lby R. C. Jett, Sheriff. Wost cases of murder, homicide, and manslaughter occurring in this county since 1S43 are given for convenience sake, toward the conclusion of the chapter on Owensboro, in a journal mainly com- piled from, J. Thomas's diary. A few prominent criminal cases are referred to in the biography of J udge James Stuart, in Chapter IX. 300 This page in the original text is blank. 4 "I'l 4e a, af. .7 This page in the original text is blank. HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Two or three remarkable cases we relate here, as we have no other appropriate place for them, namely,-the MURDER OF ROBERT M'FARLAND. About thirty years ago this man was murdered in his bed, one night, for his money. He was a farmer, about ten miles south of Owensboro, and South of Panther Creek. He had just been deliv- ering his tobacco, and was supposed to have considerable money about him. It was in the summer, and he was sleeping with the door of his room slightly ajar. The murderer entered the room with an ax, and struck himn about the eyes with the poll of that heavy implement. His wife was awakened by some one firing a weapon in the room. No clue was ever obtained to the murderers. Many ugly stories have been told concerning Mr. McFarland's fanily affairs, with a view of elucidating the mystery; but as nothing has ever been proved in court, we do not rehearse them here. MURDER OF WILLIS FIELDS. About 1862 or '3, this mian, who was a son-in-law of the preced- ing, started for Owensboro one day when there was a little Snow on the ground; but it appears that he never got more than a mile and a half on his way; for in a neck of timber about that distance from home hisbuggy was afterward found standing in the road, and him- self lying dead near by, with three or four stabs about hio body, each so severe and direct as alone to be fatal. This deed has been supposed to be perpetrated by "Tony," one of his negroes, who had been ordered to shell corn in the crib that day. It is supposed that as soon as Mr. Fields commenced his journey, Toney left his crib and ran until he overtook his master, and after murderin, him, returned hastily to his work at the crib, to avoid suspicion. Tony was himself killed sometime afterward. LOD DUKE. The following event occurred in Owensboro, Auo,. 15, 1872. J. M. Carlin was the only witness to the affair, ahd testified before the examining court that he was in the clothing store of Lod Duke, the accused, and sitting upon the counter, Lod being behind the counter in conversation with him. Josh Duke came in and stated that he wanted to settle up their business that week, and wanted 301 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. the money due him. Lod told him to go on, they would fix that some other time. Joshua threatened if money due himn was not paid, he would boxl up the goods in the store; Lod said he reckoned not. Joshua replied in an angry tone, that he would show him, and ran into a back room. Lod then began to take his pistol out of his pocket. Carlin caught his hand and lie returned his pistol to his pocket. Joshua Caine in with pistol in hand; Carlin caught each by the arm, when Lod told Josh Duke to go on, that he wished no difficulty. Joshua tilereupon jerked loose from Carlin and shot around at Lod. The latter then returned the fire, shoot- ing once or twice. Tile examininlg court, Judge Triplett presiding, after hearing the evidence, acquitted the accused on the ground of self defense. Tile parties were respectably connected, and had been in business together in Owensboro for several years; and, but for the absurd practice of carrying concealed weapons, the unfor- tunate affair would probably not have happened. Joshua Duke lingered in great agony until the following Monday, when he breathed his last. EDIUCA TION. The growth of what may be terned the " Public School Sys- tem " of this State has been very gradual. At first none but pri- vate schools were sustained, which, of course, were very poor, or wanting altogether in the poorer or thinly populated districts. In the course of time a small State fund began to grow, from the pro ceeds of certain lands. To Daviess County there was originally (Feb. 10, 179S,) donated about 6,000 acres of vacantland for school purposes. These lands, in the nature of things, yielded but a small revenue until the increase of population made them valuable. Even nlow mnost public schools have to be sustained principally by special tax. and the people are generally very loth to vote a levy upon themiselves for school purposes. Even as late as 1882 the pro- posed tax of two cents upon each 100 worth of property was voted down by 2,007 against 707. June 23, PS36, Congress appropriated 1,433,757 to Kentucky for educational purposes, but the Legislature afterward reduced this amnount to SS0,000, devoting the rest to other objects. The State felt free to do this, because she had not promised to devote the whole grant to education. This is the origin and principal resource of the permanently invested school fund, from the interest of which, for many years, the public school revenues of Kentucky have been derived. 302 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. In 1838 the first law was enacted for the establishment of a gen- eral system of common schools in this State; but for ten years the systemn languished and struggled with feeble life and doubtful success, under the ruthless hands of unsympathizing and crude legislation. Up to 1843 there had been in this State only 2,504 for the ben- efit of comnmon schools, while there was 116,375 of interest due and unpaid. The first successful movement inaugurated for the grading of any public school in this county was made in 1S70 in Owensboro. This year there were eiglhty school districts in the county of Daviess, an(d sixty-three schools were taugcht during the year. The amount disbursed for their maintenance was 4, 846.60. In 1882- '3 there are ninetv-three districts for white children and fifteen for colored. The amount of money paid during the year for their maintenance is 11,000. The number of children in attendance, including Owensboro, is 7,837. Amount of mnoney paid for col- ored schools is 1,800, from the State fund. TEMPERANCE. Besides the numerous temperance orders noticed elsewhere in this volaume and the Washingtonian movement, and a score of other general temperance revivals, enterprises and schemes coIn- mnon to every civilized community, Owensboro and vicinity, about six months after the Murphy movement started in the coun- try, was pretty thoroughly taken with the blue ribbon pledge, as introduced by Judge James Stuart. It seems that lie was converted to the cause in. a neighboring county, and immediately upon his return to Owensboro he announced that there would be a mlnass meeting at the court-house on a certain evening, when addresses would be delivered, and plans proposed concerning temperance. The evening caine, and the court-room was crowded. The Judcge then had the door locked, in order to secure perfect quietness. He delivered an eloquent appeal, and circulated the Murphy p)ledge, which required total abstinence from all alcoholic, vinous and malt liquors. Seventy-two signed the pledge that night, and in a -few days the signers reached 400 in number. On the second night John Weir addressed the people, and 200 more went forward. Subsequent meetings were addressed by W. T. Ellis, Baker Boyd, and John P. Barrett, of Hartford. Music was given by the " Mur- phy choir." 3()3 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Everything 'passed off smoothly for about ten days, when the Judge had to leave. The people, especially the youth, were en- thusiastic, and worked with a determined will and direct aim. After the first, the meetings were held in Hall's Dramatic Hall. The numbers joining the movement soon -swelled to 1,200 or 1,400. The blue ribbon was their badge. Soon after Mr. Stuart left the city, certain officiouis parties abroad desiring to visit the place, anllc have a ''finoer in the pie," wrote to him for mn invitation; but lie, fearingthe consequences, discouraged their comning. They came, nevertheless, and, true enough, dissensions soon began to arise. After considerable effort. Mr. Stuart succeeded in getting them away. A purse of 5,000 or 6,000 was made up by subscription to buy property for reading-rooms, etc.; but before the necessary plans could be matured, Mr. Stuart had to leave on official duty and the cause went down, amid the contests of jealous friends. In the spring, about four months afterward, a municipal election came on, the inevitable license question camne up, and the consequent heated controversy fixed permanent walls between friend and friend. The necessary meetings were more and more thinly at- tended, many went back to their old drinking habits, and the Mlur- phly or "blue ribbon " movement finally, like the streaks of morn- ing cloud, faded away into the dim azure of the past. The "W Woman's Movement, " which inundated so many places in the Northern States, never gained a foothold in Owensboro, or in the county anywhere. A proposition to inaugurate it here was dif- fidently made by one or two ladies, but soene ugly articles appeared in the city papers, threatening violence and resulting in a rancorous discussion, and the " motion was withdrawn." It will not be inferred from the foregoing failures that the blue ribbon movement, or any other temperance movement, has been entirely unproductive of good. The most of them have done a great deal of good-indeed, sufficient to justify the outlay of money and consumption of time attending them. For farther history of temperance societies and movements, see chapters on " Owensboro " and the respective precincts. CELEBRATIONS. The Fourth of July, 1871, was celebrated in Owensboro in a magnificent manner. The day will long be noted as one most agreeable in its annals. There was a grand display of the various 304 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY industries of the community, in a procession composed of large, wheeled platforms, elaborately ornamented and illustrated by the industry they were designed to represent. The exhibition was con- tained upon one six-horse wagon, ten four-horse wagons, eighteen two-horse wagons, and twelve one-horse wagons. Arriving at the Fair Grounds, the assemblawe listened to a fine reading of the Decla- ration of Independence by W. T. Ellis, Esq., and an instructive and eloquent address by James Stuart, the orator of the day. Feasting and fun followed. Captai n G. L. Dear was the Marshal of the day; and for the success of the occasion credit is chiefly due James Bowlds, C. C. Catlett, C. Znckriegel, C. Green, S. Kuntz and J. Badger. July 4, 1872.-"- The Glorious " this year was ushered in with no explosions of fire-arms or display of flags. Nothing disturbed the serenity of nature until the reverberating noise of the steam-whistle of the steamer Mary Ament was heard, about eight o'clock. The citizens left their shops and houses and made their way to the wharf to witness the arrival of the Odd Fellows' delegations that were ex- pected to arrive. A hundred or more disembarked, accompanied by a fine band of music, and made their way to their appointed quarters. Shortly after ten o'clock the Odd Fellows' p)rocession was formed and moved through the streets in the following order: Brothers Lodge, of Owensboro; Hawesville (Ky.) Lodge; Rock- port (Ind.) Lodge; Grand View (Ind.) Lodge; Harigari Lodge, of Owensboro, and the Mechanics' Association. The procession was preceded by the Rockport brass band. After reachingo the Fair Grounds, the theater of the day's ceremonies, the assemblao-e was entertained by a well-conceived and delivered address, by Professor Chase, of Louisville. Not less than 4,500 persons were present. Eating, dancing and various amusements were the order of the day. The receipts amounted to several hundred dollars. The colored people celebrated the day by gatheringr at Paradise Garden, where they were addressed by Thomas E. Carteher and Thomas Botts, two talented young lawyers. July 4, 1874, was appropriately celebrated in this county by a Masonic barbecue at the Fair Grounds. The Monitor observes that "it was decidedly the grandest success in that line that has ever taken place here, and eveerything possible was done to render the day a joyful one." There was of course a grand procession of Grangers, Knights of Pythias, Odd Fellows, Harigaris, Knights Templar and Freemasons. At the grounds addresses were delivered 20 305 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. by Hons. C. G. Wintersinith atnd John Young Brown. The gross amount realized from the barbecue was 1,400, which was remark- able considering the strinency of thle times. Thomas S. Pettit was Grand Marshal of the day. Tile Liederkrantz Society had a pleasant timle at Floral Park. SOUTHERN RELIEF. The fall of 1866 found the people in many portions of the South- ern States in a destitute condition on account of the ravages of war and a desolating drontli. A committee was appointed for Daviess County, consisting of Thomas 6H. Pointer, Robert G. Moorman, J. C. Maple, W. B. Pegram and T. C. MeCreery, who appointed sub- cominitties throughout the county, to collect and forward contribu- tions of corn, meat, clothing, and money. On other occasions, also, Owensboro has exhibited a marked degree of liberality. See clhapter on "Owensboro." LAND LEAGUE. J May 7, 1881, a large mass-meeting, was held at the court-house to consider the propriety of organizing a branch of the Irish Land League. J. D. Shortell was made Chairman, and George F. IHaynes, Secretary. A series of enthusiastic resolutions were adopted, and addresses were made by R. W. Slack and Rev. P. M. J. Rock, after which forty-two members placed their names on the roll, and 85 were subscribed to the funds of the League. J. D. Stiortell was elected President; Rev. Mr. Rock, Vice-President; Edwin P. Millett, Secretary, and R. W. Slack, Treasurer. Over I0O0 was collected and duly forwarded to headquarters. ARCtLEOLO6GY. This term relates to the remains of art left us by aboriginal nations; as, mlounds, skeletons, arrow-heads, skinning-hatchets, st)ne-axes, pottery, ornaments, etc., most of which in this country wvire made by the Indians, and some possilbly by other and more cevilized nations which preceded thetn. Many ethfnologists believe theat the tribes of Indians which the whites are now driving out of tbi.s country. at sotne stage of their foriner national existence, woere fully adequate to the building of all the mounds and the wiannfacture of all tlhe implements of the chase and of warfare which we now find scattered all over the West. Indeed, it is not 306 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. really certain that any different race of people ever existed in this country. -However this may be, we find within the limits of Daviess County many of these ancient remains of art, of which a number of collections have been made. W. L. Burton's 'ollection.-W. L. Burton, attorney at law, Owensboro, has a very fine collection of Indian relies and geologi- cal specimens. Of storie axes lie has one made of hard sandstone, and weighing about five pounds; and a long-polled specimen, of blue limestone, of about four pounds' weight. Of flint hoes. spades or other digging implement of some kind. there are sev- eral good specimens in this collection; also, pestles and mortars, or "grist-mills," by which the aborigines of this land ground up, their corn, acorns, paints and medicines. These consist simply of a biscuit-shaped piece of hard stone of any kind, hollowed out a little on one side, and of another piece of very hard stone, some- what oblong in form, used as the pestle or pounder. The smaller onees, weighing but a few ounces each, are supposed to leave been used for grinding paints, and the larger ones for paints and various articles of food. One specimen of pestle is about the size and shape of a small rolling-pin, and may have been a pestle or a war-club, or both. Its weight is about five pounds, and it was. found in McLean County. Some pestles were bell-shaped. Of arrowheads Mr. Burton has a large quantity of fine ones, most of which have been picked up within the bounds of -Daviess. County. They are usually of blueish-gray flint, and vary in size and shape materially. He also has a modern Indian arrow- mounted, or set in the rod. It is small, but very neat. Of Indian pipes there are some of the oddest specimens in this, cabinet. A verbal description of them would be unsatisfactory. One is made of a white sand or limestone, and a huge one, Of the- same material, is painted a brownislh-red color, in exact imitation of the color of the pipe-stone clay of Minnesota. This specimen weighs nearly four pounds, and was found in Indiana, in a mound near the Wabash. One pipe, made of white clay and of a fancy shape, is supposed to be a peace pipe. Of ancient American pottery Mr. Burton has several magnificent specimens. Two are almost globular, with a rim around the mouth at the top, and projections on the bottom to keep) themn in. a standing position. One of these would hold about a pint and a half, and the other a quart. One has twvo ears, and the other four- as if to be held by a bail. There are two larger vessels, in shape 301T HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. somewhat between a jng and an urn, from Arkansas; also, handles to household vessels, of fancy shapes. One has an image of a squirrel's head attached. In the mounds the pots are always found enclosed by the arm of the skeleton of the mound-builder, and the pipes are fouind near the mon01th. Iii this collection there are also a few Indian skulls, teeth, etc., fiom the mounds, in which thie areheologists say they were buried over 400 ye irs agco. As almost every areln-eco-ist has also a few geological speci- merns, we will imention that Mr. Burton has a few very fine pieces; as, of Lepidodendron anil leaf mnarks, from Tell City, Ind.; fossil shells, from the Devonian formation; mushroom coral; crinoidal stems; lithographic stone, from Edmtonson County, Ky.; a petrified gate-pin, from Breckenridge County, near the Falls of Rough Creek, and many smaller curiosities. Other part es througl)out the connty have a greater or less num- ber of Indian relics; as, pestles anld mortars, grist-mnills, pieces of pottery, etc. A specimen grist-mill consists simply of two stonies: one weighing six pounds, hollowed out a little on one side, with a pestle weighing one and one-foarth pounds. They are made apparently of bowlder granjite. Mlounbci, etc.-Tilere are some Indian . mounds in Daviess County, especially along- the Ohio River fromn Yelviingtun down to the vicinity of Bon Harbor. At Iceland Landling are a number of mounnds containinim specimens of aborigilal handwork, such as knives, axes, liamumers, polishers, smnall mnortars and pestles, lipes, etc. Also, the bones of a race of men are sometimes found, which miUst have avera(red eiol-ht to term feet in height. TVie jaw-bones found easily fit over the jaw of the largest manl now livinig. Two or three aboriginal burybi cu grounds have also been discov- ered in this county; but the graves are generally only four feet long, two to two and a halt feet wviJe, and about as deep as wide. Tile dead (and some of the living also, according to one authority) were buried in these craves in a sitting postule. Near the head of each- skeleton is generally found a pipe, aud in the hands a tomahawk or other implement. Every grave is lined with slate or flat sand- rock, without mortar. 308 HISTORY OF 1)AVIESS COUNTY. DAYTIESS COUNTY I1UNTEIiS CLI-B. This association was organized abont 1S76, with R. EI. Taylor, President; James M. Alhop, Vice-President; George A. Williams, Secretary, and Roy Hathaway, Treasurer. A constitution and by- laws were adopted, according to which the regular nmeetings Were to be held monthly. The number of members at first was about fifteen; there are now twenty, which is the constitutional limit. The same officers have generally been re-elected from year to year until the present time. The principal object of the club is to have htinting excursions each spring and fall. As a sample of the good times they have, we instance their encarnpmnent on Green River, about four mniles above Livermore, commencing Oct. 20. 1881, when they had with them three fine cooks, two sleeping tents, a dressing tent, and a stable tent. They caught a fair quantity of ganme and fish, and drank mineral water, etc., sang, played and danced, havincg a violin and guitar with then, and several of themn being gtood sinaers. This club is-one of the finest equipped in the State, and four f them on the occasion referred to had the reputation of being the best shots in the couinty; namely, Z. L. Taylor, J. Al. Alsop, Balrnett Kelly and Wallace Herr. They visit different grounds eael year in this and adjoining counties, sonmetim-nes -other States. List year they wvent to Southwestern Missouri; had a good time, althongh, on account of the floods, they did not secure an abun- dance of ganie. One good hulntinzg-round, especially for fishing, which they visit, is in the northwe-t extremnity ot the county, oppi- site a point below Enterprise, LId., wvhere there is a lake, supplied by overflow fromn the river. It is about 200 yards in width ai c over a mile long. Barnett Kelly, who has probably killed more (leer than any other man in the country, is now living, in Owensboro, on the Henderson Road. Other noted hunters in Daviess Counrty have been: John I-I. McFatland, who has in his dlay been a fine deer- hunter, still a resident of Owensboro-o Eilbeck Bairon. now livil-g in Ohio County; Gibson Taylor, father of R. HI. Taylor, now aged( seventy-two years, and a reside ut of Yelvin(,ton Precinct fior the last fifty years. These men have all had their training and first experience in the primeval forest, when gaame was plentifuil and the chase far more exciting than it is at the present day. 309 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COuxNrY. TWHE FIRST A.RRRIAGE. Imme(diately after the organization of this county, namely, June 23. 1815, a license was issued for the marriage of Samuel McCoy and Jane Helm. Two davs afterward the followinz was recorded in the county clerk's office: A certificate of the marriaoe of the parties aforesaid was re- turned on the license as follows, to-wit: Agreeable to command of the wvithin license, I joined together in the holy state of mar- ringe the within named Sainuel MlcCoy and Jane Helm, on the 2.5th day of J une, 1815, according to the forms and ceremonies of the church to which they belong,4. DANIEL T. PINKSTON, Atit. Attest: WILLIA.IM II. GRIFFITII, Clerk. MARRIAGE RECORD. The record of marriages in Daviess County is cotnplete, and in convenient forni for reference. Below we give a list of the mar- riages to the close ot 1820: 1815. June 23.-Samnuel McCoy and Jane Helmn. Julv 27.-Robt. Galloway and Cathari ne Souerheber. Aug. 7.-Caleb Hedges and Polly Davis. Aug. 7.- Williani Lock and Eiizabeth Moth rell. Aug. 9.-John I). Arboono and Harriet C. Lunmpkins. Sept. 11.-Jolhn Tribble and Nancy Barnett. Nov. 27.-Jolhn Field and Rachel McFarland. Dec. 30.-John Neighb1jours and Caty Liggett (widowv). March 15.-John Johnston and Lucy HIuston. Mav 13.-Bannister Wall and Sally Thompson. May 18.-11ugh Barnett and Polly Cummins. June 1O.-Jolh Gates and Lydia Edwards. Aug. 9.-Thlomas MAetcalf and Elizabeth Jones. Oct. 14.--Jesse Spray and Mary Travis. Oct. 18.-Jolhn McFarland and Elizabeth Griffitlh. Nov. 6.-Azel Aterburv anrl Vina Lay. Nov. 2 5. William Beall and Elizabethi Beall. Nov. 28.--Georec Gilmore and Patsy Isbell. 310 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Dec. 6.-Hillerv Ieall and Margaret Adams. Dec. 9.-Philip Thompson and Sally Mosley. Dec. 9.-John Roberts, Jr., and Marv Mosley. Dec. 21.-John McDaniel and Jane Adams. 1817. Jan. 9.--Abraham Shutt and Elizabeth Humphrey. Jan. 13.-Winston Martin and Pollv Pinkston. Jan. 24.-William Terrell and Ann Caldwell. Feb. 4.-Ephraib Thompson and Susan Grigsby. Feb. 4.-Cyrus Pinkston and Delilah Pinkston. Feb. 26.-James Jordan, Jr., and Jane Glenn. March 15.-Samunel Piles and Elizabeth Callhoon. March 21.-John Briant and Milly Pinkston. March 21.-Benj. Stidham and Leanna Holmark. May 5.-Ralph Calhoon and Lucy Glenn. May 15.-John B. Blackwell and Nancy Hellms. July S.-James Hfellms and Rachel Taylor. JJuly 8.-Williatn McFarlandand Frances Field. (No certificate marriage recorded.) July 10.-David Hamilton and Elizabeth Crabtree. Juily 21.-Jaines Bartlett and UIna Lay. Anug. 1.-William Sisk and Ann Brown. Sept.-John Barnett and Leah Howard. Sept. 30.-James C. Barnett and Delilah McFarland. Oct. 30.-John W. Crow and Cynthia McCreery. Nov. 26.-James Roman and Elizabeth Brooks (widow). Dec. 301.-Gabriel Hart and Mary May. 181S. Jan. 5.-Robert Wood and Millay Briant. Jan. 5.-Abner Basset and Nancy Galloway. Feb. 3.-Joseph Davis and Sally Myers. Feb. 3.-William NI. Jones and Ollie Mas. Feb. 21.-John Totten and Editha Vandike. Feb. 17.-Robert Lamb and Polly Briant. March 4.-Joseph Riggs and Lucy Dicker. Apr. 8.-Reuben Field and Agness Barnett (widow). Apr. 11.-Harrison Adkins and Polly Smith. Apr. 15.-George Tribble and Elizabeth Bingham. 311 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. May 8.-Jesse Lockett and Sally Bates. May 30.-Nathan Arterberry and Lavise Arterberry. June 3.-Willis Duncan and Frances Frazier. June 19-O.-John Davis and Elizabeth Miller. June 25.-James Newton and Fannv Field. Antg. 2.-William R. Duncan and Kitty Roberts. Auol. 4.-Groves Howard and Elizabeth Moore. Aug,. 22.-Daniel Brown and Jane Hale. Aug. 26.-Joseph S. Webb and Ann Vandike. Sept. 5.-Thomas W. Palmer and Sarah Wells. Sept. 8.-Nace Overall and Amelia IT. Daveiss. Sept. 8-Benj. B. Lockett and Jane Cary. Oct. 27.-George Calhoon and Mary Gillmore. Dec. 14.-John Gabbert and Polly McKenny. Dec. 15.-Jolhn Howard and Alargaret Moore. Dec. 12.-Joseph McDaniel, Jr., and Rhody Kirk. Dec. 15 -BRptist Mattox and Leah McDaniel. Dec. 26.-Michael Coyle and Mary Black. Dec. 29.-Jeremiah Lucas and Susanna May. Dec. 30.-John Myers and Polly Bassett. Jan 8.--Aaron Taylor and Lydia -Maxon. Jan. 13.-Pleasant Cox and Charlotte Wyley. Jan 18.-Williami Medcalf and Elizabeth Brown. March 21.-William Tanner and Anna Brown. March 27.-John II. Priest and Isabella Grigsby. March 28.--Morgan Hawkins and Sally Helms. Apr. 16.-Elisha Barker an(d Polly Huff. Apr. 24.-Williamn McFarland and Patsev Chambers. May 8.--Johni W. Patton and Nancy Anderson (widow). May 13.-Mloses Langy and [sbel MNIAItilre. May 10.-Walker Glover and Sarah McFarland. Aug. 11.-Lewis Riley and Ccassandra Pedicord. Sept. 11.-Jacob )Phigley and Eiizabeth Gibson. Sept. 10.-Zachariah Galloway andI MIfararet Pearson. Sept. 25.-Martin Richardson and Parmnelia Lockett. Oct.-fliram Jones and Sally Taylor. Oct. 10. --Thomas Martin and Sally Winkler. Oct. 10.-Ezekiel Hedges and Pcllv Tanner. 312 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY Oct. 23.-Joseph Taylor and Elizabeth Grannay (alias Sally Martin). Nov. 10.-Henry Courtney and Harriet Lumpkius. Nov. 11.--Edward Shown and Fenita T. Pinkston. Nov. 17.--John Sanders and Hannah Stephenson. Dec. 4.-S. T. Ilvnes and Elizabeth I-I. Thompson (no return of marriage recorded). Dec. 21.-Leonard Jones and Polly May. 1820. Jan. 3.-Levi S. Scott and Sally Lawrence (no certificate of inarriage recorded). Jan. 6.--John Jeffords and Pollv Rice. Jan. 6.--James Eglehear't and Ellen Hnmplirey. Jan. 10.-Harry Owen and Eliza Howard. Jan. 10.-Terry Tborp and Polly E. lloward. Jatn. 24.-George Metcalf and Elizabeth Winkler. Jan. 24.-PRichard L. Maynard and Lucy Davis. Feb. 2.-Owen Eoward and Polly Howard. Feb. 18.-Ceciliius Hood andl MTary McDaniel. Feb. 15.-James Nelson and Susannalh Crews. Feb. 21.--Zacl). Field and Amelia Tanner. March 2.-William Blrown and Anna E. Atherton. March 25.-John McCracken and Peggy Hall (no certificate re- cor1ded). March 25.-bienj. Duncan and Nancy Beauchamp. May 16.-Sainmel Carbot and Sally Timmons. April 13.-William R. Griflith and Area Mosel . May 31.-Henry W. Clark and Sally Clark. June 9.--David Barnett and Acnes H-Todges (no certificate re cor ded). June 15.-John Gaither. and Rvbecca Bell. June 23-Thonmas Tanner and Nawcy Davis. July f6.-Nieliolas G. Wort liin(rton and Eliza White. Aug. 1.--William lay and Mrs. Catharine Cook. Aug. 7.-WVilliam Clark alnd Catharine Titnmions. Aug. 15.--Andrew O'Neal and Ann Higgins. Aug. 24.-Russell Isan and Mary Ani Perry. Aug. 24.-James M. Rogers and Jane Adams. Sept. 13.-John Glenn and Elizabeth Allen. 313 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Sept. 11.--inith Akes and Martlha Caiamberlain Oct. 14.-Jacob Crabtree and Elizabeth Travis. Oct. 14.-William M. Kelhyis and Catharine Husk. Oct. 31.-Reuben Harris and Elitlha Akes. Nov. 1.--James Arcihib)ald and Patience Taylor. Nov. 3.-Hezekiali L. Priest anid Patsey Lumnpkins. Dec. 21.-Williain Kirkham and Annis Rogers. (No certificate recorded.) Dec. 27.-Xilliain Howard and Polly Moore. Dec. 27.-John May anid Patsey Davidson. In compiling the foregoing list of namries we found numrverous contradictions in their orthography, and therefore some of them are doubtless spelled wrong here. In one instande there occurred what appeared to be a dating back by half a year; and in another the parties married were not the parties licensedl to be married. The annual number of marriages, for the last eleven years, have been as follows: 1872 ............ ............ 177 1878 .201 l8X3.19................ o4 ............ 1879 .148 1874.. 1 1880........................... 117 187a. .196 1881.. , 214 1876. 170 1882..... .. 240 1877 ..220 THE FIRST STEAMBOAT DOWN THlE OHIO. In October, 1811 (or 1814, according to one authority), Fulton's steamboat, called the New Orleani, intendled to run fro!n that city to Natchez, left Pittsburg for its point of destination. Late at night on the fourth day after quitting Pittsburg it arrived in s ifety at Louisville, having been but seventy hours descending upward of 700 iniles. The novel appearance of the vessel, and the fear- fiul rapidity with which it made its passage over the broad reaches of the river, excited a mixture of terror and surprise among many of the settlers on the banks, whom the rutnor of sucli an invention had never reached; arid it is related that on the unexpected arrival of the boat before Louisville, in the course of a fine, still moon- light night, tlhe extraordinary sound which- filled the air, as the pent-up steam escaped from the sonorous pipes, produced a general alarm, and many arose from their beds to ascertain the cause. Some even thouglht the comet, which had been in view some time previously, had fallen into the river. The escape of 314 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. steam from the old-style engine was much more sonorous than from the modern engine, through the condenser. The water on the falls di(d not allow the New Orleans to pass down immediately, and she consequently econoomized her time by plying between Louisville and Cincinnati; but toward the last of November she was able to pass the rapids and "1 astonish the na- tives " along the shores of Daviess County. ANEciDOTrAL. Charley Ross," Colomed.-Sunday night of Nov. 4. 1877, it was Mr. Ross' turn to stay at homie up towti and '" nuss " the baby while his wife attendell church. In his front room hle rocked his little Charley to sleep, and, taking, the slumbering infant in his arms, lie sought the nursery and snugly tucked the little fellow in his bed. Imprinting a kiss upon his first-born, lhe returned to his family room, there to await his wife's return. He dozed off into a sleep, bit was slortly awakened by a noise in tlhe ntursery. Alarmed at once lest some danger had befallen little Charley, he rushed frantically from his room into the nursery, up to the bed, and, in his excitement, lhe noticed no Charley there. The father was wild witlh grief. 1' Kidnapped! kidnapped!" he said, and rushed imadlb into the street, down to the church in the extreme lower end of the city, where worshiped his wife, and in one last, long, lingering cry, yelled, "' Little Chaley has been stolen !" and sank down exhausted. The excitement wvas indescrib- able. His friends made all haste fi om the church, headed by the fond mother, straightway to the residence, and there found-little Charley, as snug as a bug iii a rug and snoring away most lustilN. "Who was it put him dar 'Twere anlgels," said the father. "And I think that saving a little child And bringin' it to its own, Is a darn sight better business Than a-loafiu' about the throne." D;dn't kmows it wmzs S S tvt y.-Nov. 4, 1877, an old lady of a Maud Muller cast of features and appearance cane int) Owens- boro, basket on arm, to " do some ShOpping," as she expressed it; and, stepping into Head's drug store, inquired why it was that the stores were all closed, and whether Mr. Smith's butcher-shop would be open soon. Mr. I-ead politely informed her that he sup- posed Mr. Smith's shop would remain closed all day; that lhe was a gentleman who always observed the Sabbath, and was doubtless then in attendance at Sunday-school 31,5 3HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. "S ;unday-school! " shrieked the old lady, letting her basket fall and throwing np her hands in holy horror; "Sunday-school! Why, Mister, you don't tell me this is Sunday " Sunday it is, madam, beyond the peradventure of a doubt," replied the suave druggist. "iVell, law sakes alive! and there's my old man out in the field hard at work, and me in town shoppin' and its Sunday! But, Mister, don't vou tell on me, and I'll go right home, blow the horn for John, make him put on hiis Sunday clothes, and we'll both ride old Ball to church;" and she hastened away. A slip between. the cup and the Up.-In November, 1S68, a little circumstance occurredc that proved the truth of the adage that "' truth is stranger than fiction." A courtship, with all its sighs and wooings, had long existed between a gentleman ard lady of this county, and at last the appointed day approached when the " two souls " rwhich were sup- posed to contain but a " single thought," were about to be " linlked into one," arrivel. The license was obtained, the wedding supper prepared, and nothing but the affirniative answer to the questions propoundled by the inirster were necessary to make them. " bone of one ho)nie," etc., aid entitled to wvalk down life's path together But the affair turned out rather one sided. When the parties were upon the floor, " Will you take this woman to be your lawful and wedded wife " was answered by the would-be groom in the affirma- tive with great promptness anid alacrity; but when the mninister propounded the same question with a slight variation to the young lady, she archly, and wVith a malicious wink of her eve, replied "No." This turn of affiirs of course produced a great sensation amin(, the youngo people, while the elder cnes lifted their specs and solenlniv mused ulponthe frivolities of youth, and sought a solution to the strange proceedings, which was about this. and should teach a lesson Of caution to the risiDnr generation: A few dlass before the time for the constimmation of the nuptials the young g'ent impriidently remarked to his affianced that lie was "ivelined to regret theat their weddino day was so near at hand, but that time matter hacd (,oe so fir now that in hlonor lhe could not relieve himself." This sl)eech was harborecd up by the young lady aforesaid, and she took the above mnetho(d of " relievin, " him of his " honor," and hence Lis woe and disappointment, which were justly merited. 316 HISTORY OF IDAVIESS COUNTY. DISTANCES ALONG THE OHIO RLVE-R, FROM LO1ISVILLE TO CAIRO. Louisville........... . Silver Creek.................... New Albany, Ind.............. Middle Creek................. Hughes' Bar ..... Knob Creek.................... Christopher's Crossing.......... Dean's Wood Yard ........... Salt River..................... New Boston.................. Otter Creek................... Tobacco Landing.............. Brandenburg, Ky ............. Mauckport, Ind................ Amsterdam. ............ Upper Blue River Island, Head. Leavenworth, Ind.............. Fredonia ....................... Schooner Point................ Hawkins' Landing............. Peckenpaw's Bar Head........ Woll Creek.................... Little Blue River.............. Alton, Ind..................... Reno, Ind.................... Hatfield's.House ... ........... Concordia, Ky................. Davis Landing, Ind ............ James E]sby, Pilot .... ........ Oil Creek..................... Derby. ........ Yellokw Bank Creek............ Caenault's Reach, Foot........ Stephensport........... Bear Creek ................... Holt's Bar. Gregory's, Ky . .1....... 1 Cloverport. Ky ...........1 Faueett's Creek ........1.... Millstone Creek . ...........1 RBck Island .. 1 Hawlusville ... I ............. 1 Tell City, Ind. .1......... Troy . . .......... 1 Lewisport ........ .. 1: Grand View . ..........1 Honey Creek............. 1 Rrckport, Ind .......... 1 Upper Yellow Bank Isl'd, Head. 1' )weii4,boro .......... I Bon Harbor ... ....... 1 fIiles. 0 .2' .4 .9 10 13 18 20 25 29 32 36 41 44 51 55 59 62 65 69 70 72 73 7- 78 80 82 83 84 861 87Z 91 93 96 98 99 04 06 07 14 32 L1 -50 L4 1 Enterprise................... Point Isabel................. French Island ................ Pireon Creek, Ind............. C.press Creek, Ind ............. Newburg ......... .......... Green River, Ky............... Evansville, 1ncl ............... Henderson, K3 . ............... Honderson, Inmd............... West Frank l in ................. l)iamonld Island, Foot .......... Mt. Vernon Lid .............. S!im Island, Head.............. Slim Island, Foot............. Louisiana Rocks............. Uniontown Ky................ Lower Higbland Rocks ........ Wabash Island, Head.......... Wabash River................. Wabash Island, Foot ........... Raleigh ....................... Sliawneetown, Ill............ Coal Banlks.................. Saline River, Ill... Shotwell's Coal Bank ........ Caseyville, Ky .............. Tradewater River.............. Weston. ........- ........ Ford's Ferry.................. Cave-in-Rock Town........... Big Hturricane Island, Head. Eliz tbhetitown. .. Roseclai Ill. C arrsville...... .. Golconda, Ill................ Prior Islad.... ........... Sister's Island, Head........... Bay City, Ill. Stewart's Island, Head......... D ,g Islanrl, Head .............. Snmilil md, Es ...... PWI ltight, or West Liberlt...... P;duneah, Ky..................rt Brookln.. M[etrolioprs, Ill .. ..... ..... Hillrimain's ....s. ..... Caledonia. Miounid City, Ill ............ Cairo, Ill ...........: Miles. 159 161 167 169 171 176'. 118411 '16 209 213 220 224 2271 232t, 234 23Ci/ lL2 237,14 239,3 242 245 249 251 258 260 262 264 2661 268 271 275 281 283 2D1 294 297 300 302 307 309 3101 321 324 1:30 34`0 315 160 368 31Lz 318 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. The following table indicates the coldest and hottest days of each year from 1841 to 1871, as observed at Louisville: YEAR. iCOLDEST DAY. TEMP. IHOTTEST DAY. ITEMP. 184: -2....... 1842-3....... 1843-4....... 1844-5 ...... 1845-6.... 1846-7 .. 1847-8.... 1848-9... 1849-50... 1851-2 ....... 182-3 ....... 185.3-4 ....... 1854-5 ....... 1855-6 ....... 1856-7....... 18576-8 ....... 1858-9 ....... 1859-60....... 1860-1 ....... 1861-2 ....... 1862-3..... 1863-4....... 18(64-5 ....... 1865-6 ....... 1866-7.- 1867-8 ....... 1868-9 ....... 1869-70....... 1870-1....... .I Feb. 17 Feb. 16 Jan. 29 iDec. 19 Dcc. 2 Jan. 11 Jan. 10 Feb. 19 Feb. 4 Jan. 31 Jan. 19 Feb. 9 Jan. 23 Feb. 26 Jan. 10 Jan. 19 Feb. 23 Jan. 8 Dec. 23 Dec. 31 Feb. 15 Jan. 18 Jan. 1 Jan. 28 Feb. 15 Feb. 10 Jan. 30 Dec. 12 Feb. 21 Dec. 24 40 - 3 - 4 3 -10 - 9 - 6 - 7 1 0 11 - 4 3 -22Y, -24Y, -10'2 -1 -12y, 11 0 0 -20 6 - 3 -11 4 - 1 2 - 2 Sept. 11 July 1 Aug. 20 July 15 Aug. 6 July 1 June 27 Aug. 22 July 6 July 27 July 23 July 9 Sept. 3 July 17 J uly 17 July 17 Aug. 7 July 14 Aug. 7 Aug. 3 July 9 Aug. 1 July 29 July 4 Juy15 Au.18 Juy16 Ag. 24 July 27 Aug. 14 983 915 98 96 100 95 93 89 91 93 94 98 102 97 99 96 98 101 100 99 93 86 95 93 95 99 99 96 102 DISTrANCES ON GREEN RIVER. Miles. Miles. Mouth of Green River..... 0 South Carrollton ......... . 88 Spottsville .............8 Lewisburg ..... ........90 Mason's Landing..........16 Crlo...... .......9 Birk's Mill.............22 Airdrie Works ...........10" Ciflhoon's Ferry ..........26 Paradise...............104 Curclsville .............29 IRochester, or Skybville.......113 Haireldson's Landing........36 Cromwell .............135 Bottom's Landing .........40 Logausport ............139 Stearnport .............47 Clark's Ferry............151 Wrigihtsburg ............52 M1organtown ............153 Wbitesburg, or Payne's Landing.. 53 Woodbury .............158 Ashleysburg ............58 Clark's Landing ..........163 Rtunsey, or Calhoon........ 6 Greencastle, or Warrenton......174 Liverimore .............76 Bowling Green...........189 Point Pleasant ...........79 Graham's Landing .........193 ........ . ........ . ...... : . . ...... . HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. DISTANCES BY THE 0. N. RAILROAD. Miles. Miles. Owensboro....... 0 I Livermore..21...21 Sutherland's ......................... 7 Island ............. 24 Crow's............. ...9... .... 9 Stroud's .................... 27 Lewis... 12 South Carrollton.32 Riley's........ .... 15 E. P. R. R. Junction... 35 POSTOFFICES. Birk Clity, twelve miles west of Owensboro, in Oakford Precinct and on Green River. Craig, seven miles east of Owensboro, in Knottsville Precinct. Curdsville, fourteen miles southwest of Owensboro. Delaware, twenty-one miles southwest of Owensboro, in Curds- ville Precinct, on Green River. Grissorn'8 Landing, ten miles northwest of Owensboro, on the Ohio River, and in Oaktord Precinct. .Jhnottsville, thirteen miles east of Owensboro, on the Hardins- burg road. Masonville, nine miles southeast of Owensboro, on the Hartford road. Owensboro, the county seat. Panther, twelve miles southwest of Owensboro, near Panther Creek. Piilpot Station, eight miles southeast of Owensboro on the Litchfield road, near North Panther Creek, and in Upper Town Pre- cinct. Pleasait Ridge, fifteen miles southeast of Owensboro, on the Hartford road, in Murray Precinct, near the county line. Sorhqhotovn, eight miles southwest of Oweusboro, in Sorglho- town Precinct, and two miles east of Green River, on the Hender- son road. Ut'ica, at Lewis's Station, twelve miles south of Owensboro. on the railroad, in Murray Precinct. TIfR Lootisville, fourteen miles southwest of Owensboro, in C0rdsville Precinct. Whitesville, fifteen miles southeast of Owensboro, on the Litch- field road, in Boston Precinct. Yelvington, ten miles northeast of Owensboro, on the Hawesville road. 319 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. COUNTY ATLAS. A very correct and faithful "Historical Atlas" of this county was published by Leo McDonough Co. during the centennial year. It is so well known to the citizens of Daviess County that a description is scarcely needed. It contains "eighty-one pages," counting twelve blank pages; size, 13 x 16 inches. The publishers made the serious mistake of drawing most of the maps on a scale albont twenty per cent. larger than the book could " comfortably " contain. Hence it is inclined to "1gag," with tongues sticking out around the edges! Its contents are: A page of statistics and reference symbols, well spread out, two and a half pages of county history, one page of pre- cinct history, maps of the precincts, State of Kentucky, United States, and of the whole world-the latter, of course, on a small scale; also thirty full-page illustrations of buildings and their premises, fifty-five biographical sketches of prominent citizens, and a list of patrons which purports to be only a " portion " of them. In the delivery of this work the publishers met with considerable opposition, on the ground that the maps were too large for the book, and were incorrect; that some names were spelled wrong; that the paper was poor, etc.; but they ultimately proved in court that they had fulfilled their part of the contract, and the protesting patrons were accordingly compelled to fulfill theirs. OWENSB(ORO DIRECTORY AND COUNTY GAZETTEER. This work is so faithful that we quote the title page entire: "liEmerson and Williams's Oxvensboro Directory. 1S2-'3; being a complete index to the residents of the city; also a classified business directory; to which is added an appendix containing useful informa- tion of city, county, State. and miscellaneous matters; together with a street directory, a gazetteer of Daviess County, and a post- office directory of Kentucky. Price, three dollars. Louisvilie: printed at the Oozriner Journal Job Office. 1882." This, being their first directory of this city or county, is very carefully compiled; and thepublishers announce their intention to issue a new one iii 1885. This issue contains 277 octavo pages. 320 CHAPTER XV. O WENSBORO. This growing city is located on the south bank of the Ohio River, at what was known to the early boatmen as the "1 Lower" or " Big Yellow Banks." As a name of this place, however, this was geler- ally abbreviated to tlhz simpler form, ' Yellow Banks," and thle town was scarcely known by any other name until about 1839 or '40. The postoffice bore this nlatme from the time of its establish- ment in 1]818 or 'j9, until 1837 or 'S. The name is derived from the deep yellow color ot the river bantk, as it conspicumusly exhibited itself to river travelers comlling, from either direction. This banik of yellow clay extends about six miles along the riveer, from ten to twenty feet above high-water mark. The foot of Frelerica street is 37 48' north latitude, and 10 9' west longitude from Wash- ington, D.C. Bill Smnothers has the credit of erectinog the first cabin at this point, which was probably one of the two only structures existing here in 1812, one of these being a store. Both were of logs. Thle site was selected as the county seat in 1815, by co mmissioners ap- pointed by the first County Court, held in April of that year. The survey of the first plat of the town extended from the Ohio River and a ravine on the north, to Fourth street onl the south, and from Lewis street on thle east to Walnut street on thewest. The survey and plat thereof was completed by Captain James W. Johnston, the first County Surveyor, on thle 23d day of March, 1816, and approved by the commissioners and court withl the name of Rissboro, and ratified bv the agent and owners of the landl, George Handley being a(gent for David Ross and other proprietors. Every fourth lot wa3 donated to the trustees for public purposes. The name of this place was clianged to " Owensboro" (spelled then with a ugh), probably in April, 1818; for we see in an old dav- book kept by David Mortoni or his clerk at that tinme that the head lines of pages read " Yellow Banks" up to April 8, that year, and after that " Owensborougli." This name was given in hitmor of the hero whose sketch here follows 21 (321) 3HISTORY OF DAVIESS ,OUN'IY. Colonel Ahcihakan Owsen was born in Prince Edward County, Va., in 1709, and emigrated to Shelby Countv, Ky., int 1785. His first appear' nce on the public theater was upon AWilkinson's campaign, in the summer of 1791, on. the White and Wabash Rivers. Ile was a Lieutenant in Captain Lemon's coimpany in St. Clair's defeat, Nov. 4. 1791, and receiveld two wounds in that engagement. Ile was in the expedition led by Colonel Hiardini to White River, and participated in the action which routed the Indians in their hunting camPs. His brother John, James Ballard and others of Shelby County were hlis associates on this occasion. Ile commanded the first militia raised in the county, and Singleton Wilson, of Shelby- ville, was the Lieutenant. Owen was soon promoted to Major, and then Colonel of the regiment. Colonel Owen was elected to the Legislature by the largest vote ever before polled in the Cotunty, and iTl 1799 was chosen a member of the Convention which framed the State Constitution. Shortly be- fore his death, lie vas a mnember of the Senate of Kentucky. In 1811 he was the first to join Governor Harrison at Vincennes, for the purpose of aiding in the effort to resist the hostile movements of the Indian bands collected by the energcy and influence of Tecumseh and his brothe-, the Prophet. I-He was chosen by General Harrison to be one of his aids-de-camp, and at tile memorable battle of Tippe- canoe fell at the side of his heroic chief, bravely fighting for his country, deeply regretted by the whole army. In the following December the Legislature went into mourning for the loss of Colo- nel's Daveiss, and Owen, and others who fell at Tippecanoe; and in 1S19-'20, the rnetnorv of Colonel Owen was perpetuated by a county bearinz his name. Ele left a large family to unite with his country in deploring his premature fall. Many of his relatives and de- scendants became distinguniedhed in Keqtucky and Texas. The chivalric puttriotismn of Colonel Owen, in leaving a position of ease and distinction at home, to volunteer his services against the Nortliwestern savages, is truly illustrative of the Kentucky char- acter; and after-ages look back upon the deeds of heroism at Tip. peeance. with the same veneratiou with which the present age re'trdas the memory of those who fouglht and fell at Thermopylke. MORTON9S DAY-BOOK. YELLOW BANKS, 1818. Ri. i. Nmnn, of this city, has had in his possession something over 500 pages of a day-book. kept by David Morton, a merchant here in early times, or by his clerk or bookkeeper, John Hlatha- .22 OWENSBORO. away. Mr. Morton died in this city in 1S5,S. His son, Samuel Morton, is now clerk of the Planter's Hotel. Mr. Nunn still has a fragment of this interesting relic. It contains entries from Mar. 24 to April 14-a period of twenty-two days. The pages are from 305 to 328 ot the day-book, and contain forty lines to the page, or ani averagye of about those eintered as " Dr. we append a few: Robert McFarland, Jr. James McKinney, John M. Gabbert, John S. Stutson, Joseph Griggtsby, John Travis, John W. Cheatham, John C. Craddock, Wim. Odom, Mrs. Anderson Thomas Mloi eley, Sr. Wyatt M1artin, Henry Kirkham, I srael Atteberry, Henry White, Isaiah Marks, Moses D. Carter, David M3athis, J' hn Roberts, Margaret Adams, Gcorge Handley, David Winkler, BeDj. Yager, fifteen entries. As the names of many of vwill appear faniliar to man v ot our readers, Johfl Kennady, Win. Harris, James Jordan, 8aniuel Johnson, John Piles, George Taylor, Johnl Daveis-, Warner Lewis, James McFarland, Thomas Taylor, Leroy C. Bristow, Henry Roberts, David Attebeiry, Martin's Nat, Basseit's Isaac Charles Worthington, Jas. W. Chappell, Hiary Beall, Peter Slagle, Rosa Ewing, Charles l)uncan, Abner Bassett, Zach. Galloway, Pinkney Gilchrist, JTohn Patton, Caleb Shelton, George Metcalf, James Bryant, Mrs. MeNemer, James Everton, Edmond Cheatham, James Hollingshead, Rogerg, Griflith Co., George Bell, Wm. Luinpkin, Lewis Love, Wm. Wood, Cecilius Wood, John Snvder, W igrht Taylor, Daniel Cooney, Wim. Evans, Wm. Clement, Wm. R. Duncan James Roberts, Isaac Holmes, etc. It may be observed that there are no nicknatmes in the above list, except, perhaps, in the instance of one colored servant " Nat." The accoants were kept in both English and American denomini- nations. as appears in the specimen, which also showvs the retail pi-ices of the various corn modities: 2 lbs. C, -ff, e, Ca 3s ................................................... 2 lbs. Brown 1vSugar, (e 2... 1 bottle Snuff, Cat 3s. 9d. 34 lb. Imreii lI Tea, _ . 8s. ......................................... 5 lbs. 10 oz. Loaf Sagar, 3s........................................ 1 yd. English Factoiy, Co) 3s. 9d. 7 Bridle, 6t 8s. 3d 7 -cls. 1 .. 1: . 4s. d.. 6 yd(s. I' .i , _ 2s 7,1 d. 2.11;ch l B I - ,5 is. 9d. 1 lb. 8d. Nails, I 1s. 6d .......................... 1 yd. Calico, 2s. 3d............................................... 9 yd. Jaconet Muslin, _ 9s........................ ......... 513 yds. Domestic Checks, 3s .......................... 1 Pocket Glass, , 2s. 3dc............................................ 1 hlank Cotton Thread, 9d. 2 dz. Shoe Tacks, 9d . I doz. Fish-Hooks, Is. 6d. 2 Glass Tumblers, to Id ................. . .......................... 1.00 656 .621 2 8114 .612 1.3 1; 5.25 2.6213 ."t .25 1.1t21 .25 .25 .25 323 324 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. 1 pr. Boots................... . - 1150 1 pr. Shoes, G 15s .. 2.50 1 pr. AMorocco Slippers (a 7s. od ..1.25 1 ( t. Bottle, (O Is. tid - . ......................................... .2.5 1 Pocket Knite, m, 2s. 31. .87 1 skein Silk, . 9.. .1212 1 oe, 9. .... 1.50 3 qts. Whisky, 6 1. Cid ................... ...... , . .... .7.5 1 -ga. r. Btl- '..........................5.................... 50 1 pr L l;. : (ta 10s. 6. . .1 .. ,I75 1 Lancet, ) Is. d. ..25 I set, Edged Pl;tez, ('( G6 ...................... 1.00 11., /Yds. Brown Cloth, h 18 ..4.50 ' V'est Pattern and ITrinlmlings...... . ... ...................... ].12' 8 ydcs Red Flannel, Cm 3s. 9.. ,, 5.0( 1 L imp, 33................ o -..............o... 5 1 v(J. Cambric, (0 3s --...... ................. .50 4 yd;s. Diminty, C 3s. 9d ...................... ..... 2 50 10 lbs. Nails, G 2c ..2.20 1 doz. Needles, ( ....... ,.........................1212 1 paper Pins, Cp is. 6d ................... . .5 2 oz. Indigo, Is. 6d .................. . ............ .50 2 yds. D)omestie Sheeting, 3s. 6d .... .............................. 1.25 1 pr. Black Silk Gloves, C' 4s. (i. .. 1 . 1 Coffee Boiler, () 4s. 6d . . .7 1 Cist.Steel Chisel, i Is. Gd. .2 1 Plane Bit, ( 2s, 3d ........................ ............ ........... .87 1 pr. Specks (Specetcles) 5s. 3d . ................. 5.;50 7 lb. Pepper, 3. 91.................... .31y 33 lbs. Iron, C) is. 6d ................. . ............. 5.28 1 oz. Cinnamon Bark, ( Is. Gd ........................, .2.) 1 qt.. Wine, W, Os.. ......................-. . 1 00 OWE:NSUSORt- Th'N 1820. The foll)win1g letter dated July 2, 1820, was written 1y Turenne W. Watkins, at Owens')oro, then Yellow Banks, and addressed to Thomas W. Watkins, Eilicott Mills, Md. Mr. William R. Griffith, whose marriage is mentioned, was the father o li-ons. Clint andt l)Iniel (h'ri fftlh of O0vensbJoro. AMany otlher famili rt namnes are also mentiolled. "YELLOW BANKS, KY., July 2, 1820. "Dua-, Brolher:-I embrace the earliest opportunity to acknowl- edgre the receipt of your kind letter bearing date June 2u. Although I have nItlling to communicate whlich would aflord you one momnent's real pleasure, it iniglht be a gratification to von to hear fromn your old Kentucky friends and acquaintanees. I believe, in m. last to f tlier I mentioned Willi.m PR. Griffitlh's nnion with Miss Aria Moseley; it not yon are now inforined. Ile was unitel to hier in April least, and I think if there is any real liappi- ness to be derived from a married life lie'eejoys ashare, for I think God has bestowed orT hiimi one of the choicest blessings of lheaVen- a woman fiually caleulated to render the married state a permanent OWE NSBPORO. paradise. Richlard S. May was married to Mrs. Lucy Davis, daughter of Captain Benjamlin Fields, last winter. John Gaither, nephew of Uncle Basil Gaither, was married to Rebecca Bell two weeks ago, and has taken her to Missouri. James MI. Rogers will be married to Jane Adanms as soon as hie returins from New Orleans, which will be in a few days. Nicholas G. Worthington and Miss Eliza Whitewill, datiughter of Hlenry Whitewill, will be married on the Sixth of this month. I am to be groonisman, and Susan Adams, bridesmaid. " You wvished me to write von relative to the credit and standinm, of our Owensboro merchants. To give you a true account of their circumstances would be impossible; but I vill endeavor to come as near the point as possilde. PRoger Griffitl Co.,I b have every reasun to believe, are pertectly solvent; S. I. D. Morton, I believe, are are a!so solvent, although someiewhat pressed, which is the case with every speculative character or merchant. Thomnpson and Moselev, 1 suppose, are also solvent; still, I thin-k their case somewhat dotnht- ful. I have Understood that some time past a Philadelphia mer- chant drew on them for 10,000. Jolhn D. Aloselev lhas gone ilito Missouri to live. Ile and Reuben Bates are going to set p a grocery. You mentioned that you had not received a letter from ine acknowlelging the receipt of 10 sent me by manil. I wr,,te to you imimediately on the receip ,t of it to that amount. I did ti t tlink to ask Williamis if lie had received ,anv, but I think he (didl. Ile has written to you fircqnently and received iio answer. Ile says lie will quit writing if you( do not pay more attention to his letters, and tOr me to inform von that ie is wvell and started a letter to you somie time in June, and slhall anxiously await the arrival of an answer. Neither he nior James will be in this fall, owing to their tobacco not gettinig to market. It has9 been lving, in Green River better than three months, and at last have t, haunl to tlhis p)lace to ship. They intend to have it sent on to von w uith iun'truc- tions to bring on g,]ds,-at least talked stroTnIgly of doilnr so,- but the detainers of the produce p-revented their raisimm ftuids sufficiently to put in execution their designs. I suppose yon hfive heard who has offcuwd, for the next Governor; it not y on vill be informed on the receipt of thlis: General Adair, Blutler Logan, and several others not worth nientioTniui0. AI'lWir's election. I thirnk, is sure. The candidates for the Senate are: Ben Dnncan Anderson, of HIardinsibnrg,, and Dr. Charles McCreerv, of' iart- 325 3IMSTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. ford; Duncan, I think, will be elected. Candidates for tile House of Representatives are: Beverly Todd, Captain Penticorn, I-Ienry White, -WTilliani) Newtont and D. Warner Crow: Crow'.s election sure, I think. C'andidates for Congress are: Young Ewvin,, Dr. A. Delaney, and onr or two others; I know not which will carry the day. Prosp-ects are well; my love to fartherl, mnother, brothers and sistens, and all inquiring acquainftances. I am stilt in bad health; niave a constant palin, or weakness. in my breast-it is generally t1l(,tlhouht to be conlsumption. I sh ali remove fromn this place as mOon as circuminstances will adm it. Alfred, Chiarlotte and family are all well. Write to me frequently. "The amount that stands against you on G., R. Co.'s hooks is 22-4.61. I don't think Alfred wilL be able to pay you before next spring. I-e has a tine stock of ho-rs on hand. Perhaps lhe will kill 20 000 weight next fall. If there should he a good mtrarket, then, and not before, lie will be able to discharge the debt. I hope you will all be more attentive to me and write frequently. It lhas been nearly a twelve-mionth since I received a letter fromIt you until I received tlte one now betfre me. Tell Caroline and Camips- aclell they mnust wVrite to me. My complilments to Alr. Crabster and sister. Ilie is one letter in my debt, ond I would he (glad to receive it. Write me everythiing that has transpired since I left Malr-land. I would write often, but there is T)Otiil-u goin- onl hiere that would be in any way satist'actorv to you. Remermber mlie to the servants in genieral, and-believe Iimn ever your affectionate i)rothier, -T. W. WArrKrxS." FRAGMENT'A RV ITEMS. jJI2'. ]nrwtd, wife of T. T. [Toward, deceased, wvas born in Oldltlamn Cutlty, Ky., twenty-five miles north of Louisville, about 1803, and was broulght here by lher parents Jan. 20, 180IS, who landed alt Yellow Baniks whLeno there were but fiw log cabins, and a store kept by Daniel Moseley. The father of the latter kept the firbt boarding lhoune in tle county. Mrs. Howard was a daughter of Jammies and Anna (IBoonie) Barulnill, tlie latter being a second COuSIN 04 D.lIiel Boone. John HL. Nc arlamd's second wife w(as the JiSt cdldl born in Oweiisboro. T7/w l ost /. now in Owenshoro are the MAloreland House," and thle os o11 thle nex-t corner, which uised to be occupied by 326 Dr. Haynes, and two log cabins at the corner of Sixth. and Wal nut stf eets. 0o)e of the oldest iof ho ses in Owvensboro was torn down in 1869, and on its site Leo Sims that year built a large tobacco mware- house. The cabin was built about 18210 or before, by a inan named Yeager, and was the first house onl what is now Fredericastreet. It was oceupied every year duringo its existence. WVI-at Inelnories linger arouhid such a spot! Ek8e,'jeai stbeet is said to have been named bv MAr. Poss. in honor of a mlulatto slave he owned at the time. The nalme, 1ovw- eever, has been variously spelled. Il1dfla Gn e'ositq.-Tn 1T74 or '5, aiong' a party which em barked at the falls of the Ohio to descend the ri-er. was Andrew Rownan. WWhile the boat stopped at the Yellow Banks onl the Indiana side, Mr. Rowan borrowed a loaded gaun, but no amlmu- nition, and started off in 1)ursuit of amusement rather than game. When lie returned the boat had gone; the party having seen "SilS 1" of Indians approaching, and not darinc, to wait for Mr. Rowan, hastened off down stream. The latter started toward the nearest white settlement-Vincennes, 11-10 miLes distant-but soon lost his way, wandered about tfr three days and. exhausted, lay down to die. R1oused by the report of a gnru, hie rose and walked in the direction o,' the sound. An Indian, seeing himi, raisedc his gUln to fir(; Rolvan turimecd time butt ot his gulll, and the Indian, with Frenclh politeness, turned the butt of his also. Taking pity uponi R(owan's helpless condition, the Inidian led lhiml to his N'i-' wamr, and treated hLim nwith great hospitality until his strength was regained, and then took hiim to Vincennes. Wishing to reward his generosity. Mr. Rowan arranged with a merchant to pay him 300; but time Indian persistently refused to receive a cent of it. He finally, to please Mr. Po-)warn, acceptedca new blanket, wrapping which around llim, lhe said, with somne feeling,. - Whenever I wrap myself in it, I wvill think of you." GE NEL AL PROG RESS. In 1833 the population of Owen sboro was scarcely 200 all told, and not a single church edifice or organization. The increase in population was small until 1850. A branch of the Southern Bank was located in Ovensboro about thtat time. The lpoer of the trustees had been enlarged by Legvislative action, and those offi- cials began to drain and improve the streets. The action of the 327 OWENSBORO . 8HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. trustees, and the fact that the bank was one of the institutions oi the place. gave assurance that there was some money in town, and seemed to infuse new life into the citizens, even the old fogy part of the population, which had been averse to enterprise. Improve- iaents began to be made. Better louses were commenced, new corners poured in and a steady growth. was maintained until 18(61, whlen the war p-uit a stop)p to all enterplrise and public improvement. The populationi decreased, and not until 1866 did improvements beg-in again, or was ani increase of population -notedl. A moderate but perceptible degree of progress and growth has continued until now, in 1883, when the population is estimated at about 11,600. OWENSJ'ORO AS A CITY. Owensboro received a city charter fiom the State Legislature, Feb. 16, 1866. The following is the first entry of proceedings in the record book, sand bears (late of April 9, 1866: " Pursuant to thie provisions of the charter incorporating the city of Owensboro. E. S. Ayres, wll)o had been (duly elected to the office (if Mayor of said city. Jamnes Kenimad, M. D. Soyd and .J. Deal, whio had been duly elected as Councilmen for the .upper ward, .ind Benjamin- Bransfurd, George Browvn and William Shelby, who had been dulv elected as Councilmen for the lower ward, appeared at the court-house in the city of Owensboro on Mo-nday, the 9tli day of April, 18866, at three o'clock P at., and were duly sworn into office by E. T. Berry, Esq., and thereupon the chairman and trustees of the town of Owvensboro delivered over to the said Mayor and Council the records and papers of said town. The said Mayor and Council then organized, and, on motion, James Hunhes was appointed Clerk, pro teim., and, on further motion, the said Council ndcjouriied to Thursday niglt. the 12th day of April, 1866, to meet at the store-house of Kennedy- Bro. 'C. N. S. TAYLOR, Clerk." At the next meeting of the Council, held April 12, C. N. S. Taylor was duly elected Clerk 'for the year ; J. W. Coleman was clhosen Treasurer, ULnder 15,000 bonfds, and the office of Attor ney was tilled by the election of W. N. Sweeney. At a meeting leld April 16, forty-ninie ordinances were presented to the Council, and the same were adopted Ai-,ril 18. an(1 orilered printed in the Owensboro Slkeld. The first thirteen- of these ordinances provided for licenses of various kinds, the following being the scale: 328 Tavern or hotel ........... 10 Auction on streets ................ 20 RestauraTnUt.............. , 50n Peddling.. 80 Ardent spirits ......... 20 Boat selling merchandise . 50 Billiard saloon pei table, not execed- Circus, Museum or M1enagerie per inz two.....10 ,0 dy .100 Billiard saloon per table, exceeding Theatrical performances each . 10 two. 50 J Tobacco stemring..t 2ot o 50 Ten-pin altle3 ......... . ;)0Haulinlg for profit ................. 5 Auction house ......... 50 Among the other ordinances wvas one in regard to the observance of the Sabbath (to this day Owensbo ro is itoted bor the strict coni- pliance with the law on this subject, 10 st-orcs being open on Sunday, even tr an hour), dischar-hcric fire-arms, riot, disturbing religiou s worsi tip, d(og-fights, distir-bino o'ood order. tighltinlg ani- mals, riding fast, hitchillg onll strcets, exhibiting stallion or jack, nuisances, rubbish On streets, obstruction of streets, driveingr ani- mals on pavement, obstrscting sewer pipes, culrbing, batlliny in Ohio River, city scales, wharf, ferry-mian, wharfmaster, wharf- boat, freight, wharf-boat rates, swearing-, on streets, contagious diseases, selling unwholesome flesh as food. shade trees, concealed weapons, gaining lines recoverable, city judge, marshal's report, and taxing of dogs. Py the org'aiization of the Council and the adoption of these or(hinances the machin.erv of city fgovernmient was fairly set in motion, and Owensboro became a citv in fact as well as in name. The seal of the ci!y of Owensboro waas adopted April 18, 18(i6, and bears U p'on it the words, '' The City of Owensboro Seal," and the figure of a tobacco leaf. The first Mayor of Oweusboro never presided over the delibera- tions oftthe Council. Shortly after the lirst meetinog at which he was sworn in, Mayor E. S. Avres was taken ill. and died in less than a week. The following appropriate testimonial was adopted by the Council April 18: "TWHEiREAS, An inscrtktable Providence in his wisdom has re- moved by (death our esteemed fellow-citizen, Coptain E. S. Avers, recently elected to the office of Mayor of this city, and who w-as therefore the presiclino officer of this bodyN, therefore be it Pi Resolved, Tlat in the death ot said] Ayers the community has lost a useful citizen, who, by his affable manners and correct deportment had endeared himself to the hearts of all, and this Council an able and efficient presiding officer and member, and that we deeply deplore his loss and hereby tender to his bereaved family our Warmest sympathies. 3299 OWENS8BORO. HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Resolved, Tlhat we wvill in a boc)lv attencld his funeral, as a further testimony ot Our respect for his memory. " Resolved, That the citizens be relquestedl to suspend ali business, wit. closed door.s, fromn 10 to 12 o'clock to-morrow, during the f uneral ceremony. "Re,,ved, That tlhe clerk of this Council present a copy of the fore- goiuz pr)eambllle arnd resolutions to the wife of the deceased, and thlat the papers of the eity, be requested to publish them." Sl/es, etc.-Tlie charter in force previous to 1882 allowed the city officials to, vote thlemselves "' back pay," whiclh genera!lV was justifiable, owiing to increasing responsibilities connellns urate wvith the iiereasinm growth of the city. Some complaints being mavide, however, in 1874 the fbllowinlc facts were developed: 1859, the Board of Trustees received 2.5 for their services; 1860, they in- creased the comnensatio!l of the chairman; 1861, pay of the clerk an(d attorney uicr,-eased; 18S3-'3, pay of the treasurer increased to 75 and 350 ftr the respective years; 186T-, compensation of the councilinen doubledl; 1866. saine increased to 150, and the mayor's to 300; 1S69, thatt of the clerk, treasurer and attorney increasel-l; 1Q871, inayor received 100 addition ii to his usutal allow- ance; 1872, lhe received 700. Pies-nt C(hctiler.-By act ot the Legislatture approved March 18, 1882, a new cliarter was granted the city, with the foregoing, defect remnedied, amongc several others. This charter, wvith the orclinances, is printed in pamphlet form, miaking eighty d odecimto pages, and can be obtained by any citizeni from the city clerk. Tihe first section of the charter describes the city liuii ts, which lhad been enlarged in a souitlherlv direction in 1872. OWENSBORIO IN 1872. Ovensboro in 1872 had a population of about 8,000, and was one of three priDMcipal cities on either side of the Ohio River between Lonisville and Cairo. The city then had thirty-one lawyers, fifteen physiciLns, nitne ministers ot the gospel, three dentists, six drug stores, six express wazons, fifteen drays, twenty- five groceries, sixteen dry-goods stores, ten merchant tailors, two boOt and shoe stores, one queen's-ware store, one carpet store, two tinware and stove establishmentrs, three hardware stores, three bakeries, eleven confectioneries, two book and stationery stores, five barber shops, six meat and vegetal)Ie shops, six millinery stores, two turnituire stores, two (-nsin ithis, two photographers, 330 three jewelry establishmients, thirty-five liquor saloons, six beer' saloons, ten livery stables, three tobacconists and cigar-inakers, three undertakers, nine shoemakers, seve ii clothing holuses, four saddlers, eight blacksmiths and wayon-makers, one hide and fur house, one dve-lhoumse and one real estate ag-Pent. Also fifteen large tobaceo steinmeries eirploying, over 600 hands, two large plani!ng-tmills. one woolen-mill, oine foundry, one broomll- factory, two extensive breweries, three corn and wheat IIills, one apple-brandv distillery, tour brick mills,mone mnarlbe vard, three ban ks. seven wholesale liquor-dealers, one sewing-iaclhine estab- lislhmnent, six hotels, one furniturefactory, a city hall, skateiu rink, two lbrass bands, two larze )ublic scho6ls, three private schools. nine gloo(d church buildings. six largye distilleries, a splendid court- lhouse, with town clock, a securejail, two large wharf-boats, a good levee, pullic scales, gas-works, and lodges of Masons. Odd Fellows, Temperance, fl-iarigari, etc., etc. OWENSBORO IN 18S2 is showni by the good directory published by Emerson Williams, in] which tile items are so differetntly taken that an exact comparison with ls72 cannot well be made; but it is certain that wvhile the pollnation has increased to al)oiit 11,600, or f)rty per cent., business a:end i m provemlen ts mave gone forward withl equal pace. The taxable popelrty of Owetisboro in 1.872 was listed by thle city assessor as follows: Within the old city bound:-try. 2,121,- 5855; within the addition, 1 81.915; property of negroes, 13,495; total value of property, 2,:317,02)5. The prwoperty in tlme addition was listed separately because it was LTnnexed to the city onII condil- tion that it should lot share the railroad del-bt and solle other resp)onsibilities, a nd fiat of the colored people onl account of thei- separate seclool interests. Thle a-;sesstnemmt this year J1S72) withiI the old city boutndaries showed an increase of over 104,000 in) excess of ihe prev ious year sulbject to taxation. Sollne other statistics of this year were also publ ishied ; but when we see that tIme whole necro J)opulation is chain-cr .1 in the item of' dogs, with owning only eleven of them, we are in doult. as to the value of the rest of figures. One of the freaks of the census! Aulr 7 1880, a propositioln was voted on1, 3-,29 to 32, to issue bonds to the amount of 50,000, for as incIh mnoioey to be ex- pended in general imnprovemuents. namely: 20,000 for graveling and gutteritng the streets; ,10.000 for sewers; P010,000 for in- 331 OWENSBORO . HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. provin the wvliarf; 5,000 for enlaring the school buiildings; and S 5,000 for prote(,ting, the river front. For the issne of bonds the charter reqnired the afhiriative of a insjority of all the quali- fied votturs of the city, and therefore the alove meastire did not carry. Trlie i, j)ptthv of the citizens was astonishing. A public meeting_ had been heldl, and rousing speeches imade. Orealsloro, howvever, is a nice city, appirently in as good a trim as any of lher sisters. POPULATION. The population of Owenisboru) fromi tine to time has been as fol- lows: 1830............. . 229 1 8. ..0... . 3,4310 185O. 1,215 18T.a.. .. about 8,010 1860.. .......28 1880...ne. rl3 10,000 1864. . about 3,000183............... about 11,597 The United States census fomr 1SS( gave Owensisoro only f,231, which was evidently an error. CITY OFFICERS. 1866-'7.-M'ayor, E. S. Avres (died in office), S. D. Kennady (to fill unexpired terrrO; City Jundge, J. P. Washbuirn: Councilmen, James iKermady, M. D. Soyd, J. Deal, B. Bransford, George Brown and William Shelby; Clerk, C. N. S. Taylor; Treastirer, J. W. Coleman; Assessor, William S. Britain; Collector, Thos. S. IHuntchlison; Attorney, W. N. Sweeney; AMarshial. Thos. S. Htitchison; Whiarftinaster, Lafiayette Elder; Weigh masters, M ur- phy and Talbot (renioved), J1. S. Mitc!ioll. 1S67-'8.-MAayor, S. D. KeDnady; City Julge, J. P. Washburn; Councilmen, James Kennedy, Geor -e Brown, Larkin Field, Jacob Deal, Charles Werner and John I3rotiherton; Cler'k, C. N. S. Tay- loi; Treasurer, J. W. Colemnan;- Assessor, George N. McKay; Collector, Thos. S. Hutchison ; Attorney, Alexander Craycrott; Mlarslial, Thomas I. I-Hutchiison; AVeigbliasters, R. H1. Wililoyle (remove]), Pate and Adams; Wharfmaster, L. Elder. 1868-'9.--3M.vWr. S. D). Kennady; City Judge, J. P. Washburn; Councilmen, Geure Brown, Clharles WVerner, Jobn Brotlierton Jacob Dcal, Jamnes Kennadly and Johin Tliixtoni; Clerk, Ed. Moor- Inall; Treasunrer, J. WV. Coleman; Assessor, T. Hi. Pointer; Col- lector, T. S. uIltehison ; Attorney, T. B. Hardin ; Marshal Thos. S. llutchison; Vhliarfmasters, Mlurply and Triplett; Weighimasters, Pate and Adatns; Engineer, A. Pfafflin; City Physician, Dr. E. HI. Luckett. 332 1S69-'70.-Aiavor, S. D. Kennaly; City Jude, J. P. Waslh- burn; Councilinen, James Kennady, Jacob Deal, Ellis Dawson, George Brown, John Thiixton and William McCallister; Clerk, Ed. Moorman; Treasurer, J. NV. CGleman; Assessor, William S. Britain; Collector, T. S. lIutchison; Attorney, Thoinas Hardin; Marshal, T. S. Hlutcliison; Weighnmaster, XV. E. Moornian; Wharf mimasters, Murphy and Triplett; Pilysician, Dr. E. E. Luckett. 1S70-'1.-MNayor, S. D. Kennady; Citv Judge, Alexander Cray- croft; Counicilnien, James Kenned v, -E. H. Taylor, John G. Delker, John Timixtozi, George Smnith and Jamnes A. Williite; Clerk, Ed. Mooriuan; Treasurer, J. WV. Calema-t; Assessor, C. N. S. Taylor; Collector, T. S. ffutclhison; Attorney, T. B. Hardin; Marshal, T. S. Hutelherson; Vei ,litnaster, WVilliam N Moornari; Whiarfmnsters, Murplhy Triplett; Piiysiriau, De. R. B. Gilbert. 1871-'2.-Mayor, S. D. Kennadyl; City Judge, J. P. Washlburn; Counciltmien, John G. Delker, Y. L. Ford, Jacob Deal, George Smuith, WV. T. Owen and Jamies W0il lilte; Clerk, Ed. Moorinan; Treasurer, J. W. Coleman; Assessor, J. II. Branluhamn; Collector, T. S. Ilutclmison; Attorney, R. H. Taylor; MAtrshal, T. S. Hutch- ison; Weightnaster, W. E. Moormian; Wlharfiuaster, R. S. Triplett; Phvsician Dr. R. B. Gilbert. 1S72-'3.-MaYor, Bel. Bran sorJol; City Judle. Alexander Cray- croft; Councilinein, J. Thixton, J. Rose, Williara Clhirk. A. Cox, J: E. Dawson and C. Zulckregel; Clerk, E. B. Colgan ; Treasurer, T. S. Anderson; Attorney, Thom-as E. Crutchier; Assessor. Joseph Dear; Collector, WV. II. Frey; Mfarslial, T. S. Hutchison; Weih- inaster, P. Ellis; Wliarfrnaster, T. V. Bacon, Pimysician, Dr. John 0. Scott, succeededl by Dr. Chlarles [1. Todd. 1S73-'4.-Mayor, Ben. Bra.isrord; Citv Jndge, Alexander Cray- croft; Councilinen, J. Deal, C. RTickler, R. H. Taylor, E. ii. Bryan, J. A. Godshiaw and Dr. Jolin I:). Orden; Clerk, HI. L. Cambridge; Treasurer, P. T. Watkins; Assessor, S. D. Shepard; Attorney, L. P. Little, succeeded by R. WV. Slick; Collector, A. M. C. Sin- mons; Physician, Dr. J. Q. A. Stuart; Weightliaster, P. Ellis; Wharfinaster, F. WV. Bacon. 1874--'5.-Mayor, George Brown; City Judge, J. C. Dear; Mtar- shial, hIoward Loniv; CouncilmlAn, Chiarles Rucker, Janmes E. Daw- son, A. F. MeJohnston, J. A. Godshiaw, John IT. Brainion and John B. Scott; Clerk, David Morton, sneceeded by P. R. Zulalif; Treasuirer, T. S. Anderson; Assessor, Wiliain Pottin ger; Collector, Isaac Kermnad; Attorney, J. W. Feighlian; Weigilimaster, Samuel 8333 OWVENSBORO . HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Morton; Wharfinaster, F. W. Bacon; Plhvsician, Dr. E. H. Luckett. 1S75-h6.-Mavor, George Brown; CityJudge, J. C. Dear; Mar. Olal, T. B. Yeager; Councilnen, EI. P. Tompkins, S. W. Long, F. J. Clark, Chlarles Werner, J. B. Cruse and Charles Rucker; Clerk, Rov R. Iathaway; Treasmr-er, W. B. Tyler; Assessor. W. T. Smith; Collector, J. A. Godslhaw; Attorney, J. B. Karn; Weigh- master, Samnuel Mortonr; Wharfinaster, E. B. Trabiie; Physician, Dr. E. IL. Luckett. 1876-'7.-Mayor, George Brown; City Judge, J. C. Dear. 1878-'S.-Mayor, Georoe Brown; City Judge, J. C. Dear, stic- ceeded by F. L. Beers; Marshal, T. B. Yager; Councilmen, F. J. Clark, TI. P. Tompkins, A. F. MAfe-ohluston (resigned), Larkin Fields (unexpired terni), Isaac IKentadv, W. W. Hays and James Tharpe; Clerk, Eben Parden; Treasurer, W. B. Tyler, succeeded by John Wandling; Assessor, Win. Pottinger; Collector, W. II. Owen; Attorney, G. W. Jolly, succeeded by J. B. Karns; Weighmaster, Samuel Morton; Wliarfinaster, Bruce Trabue; Physician, Dr. E. TI-. Lnekett; Auditor, H. L. Cambridge. 1878-'9.-Mayor, John Thixton; City Judge, J. C. Dear; Mar- shal, T. B. Yager; Councilmen, J. B. Alurphy, George Rogers, Joseph Lee, Isaac Kennady, W. W. Hays and J. A. Smnall; Clcrk, Eben Parden; Treasurer, John Wandling; Assesso;', J. E. Mitchell; Auditor, J. W. Coleman; Collector, T. A. Futqua; Attorney, Il. P. Moorman; Weighmnaster, Samuel Morton; Wharfm aster, Hamilton Alexander; Physician, Dr. C. C. Lewis. 1879-'80.-Malyor, Thos. Thixton; City Judge, W. W. Chambers; Marshal, Howard Long; Councilmen, James Aslhby, Ja.nes A. Small, Jam) es K. Tharpe, George Rogers, Joseph Lee and 13. Maer; Clerk. P. P. Zulauf; Treasurer, John Wandling; Assessor. William Pottinger; Collector, T. A. Fnqua; Auditor, J. W. Coleman; At- tornev-, W. T. Owen; Weighmaster, Samnuel McOrton; Wharfinaster, 11. Alexander; Physician. Dr. C. C. Lewis. 18SO-'1.--avor, James K. Tlharpe; City Judge, W. W. Charn- bers; Marshal, Charles Raney; Councilmen, J. A. Smnall, L. J. Cottrell, Charles Werner, Jos. Lee, Robert Burch and B. Baer; Clerk, Phil. R. Zulauf; Treasurer, John Wandlinmg; Assessor, C. R. Coffey; Collector, John W. Carter; Attorney, G. W. Jolly; J. W. Coleman, Auditor; Weighmaster, T. S. Hatliaway; Wharfinas- ter. If. Alexander; Physician, Dr. C. C. Lewis. 1881-'2. -Mavor, James K. Tharpe; City Judge, S. D. Kennady; Marshal. Charles Haney; Councilmen, J. B. Cruse, S. H. Harrison, 334 OWENSBORO. D. M. Griffith, J. LI. Taylor, G. W. Rogers and B. Baer; Clerk, Phil. R. Zulaiif; Treasurer,Johlt Wandlintg; Assessor, A. B1. Miller; Collector, J. W. Carter; Auditor, "F. w. Coleiman; Attorney, W. T. Owven; Weighinaster, E. A. Ilathaway; Wharfinaster. TI. Alex- ander; Physician, Dr. A. A. fHaynes. 18892 3-Maaor, James K. Tharpe; City Judge J. B. Karn; Marshal, J. T. Griffitl; Councilimen, J. L. Ilio(,Ion J. G. Norton, Anthony Eger, Dr. J. HI. Tavlor, T. J. ilonarclh, and A. C. Tom]p- kins; Clerk, Phil. R.. Zulaulf; Treassnrer, John Wandling; Assessor, William S. Pothinger; Anditor, J. W. Colemnan; Collector, F. J. Clarke; Attorney, W. T. Owen; WeighmLniaster, T. E. Aull; Wharf- master, Haln. Alexander; Physician, D)r. T. E. Lamping. INDUSTRTAL AND COMMERCIAL. Mention has already been made of the first store, kept by David Morton. Carpenters and masons of course came in with the de- mands of the growing village. Among the first brick-masons remembered were Edward Lamb- din, commonly known as "I Old Boss;" Joseph Weaver, about 1839; and James A. Wilhite, since that period. The first brick-yard in Owensboro was on Allen street, hetweeni Fifth and Seventh streets, near a tan-yard pond, and was owned and operated by Joseph Wea- ver before 1839. " Old Boss" and Stelle mnade brick, near where Henry P. Tompkins' tobacco factory now stands, on Walntt street. Afterward Wilhite had one on Fourth street. The first blacksmiths remembered by the present oldest residonts as following their trade in Owensboro were J. J. Boles (spelling of this naine not ascertained), Lecrge and Faith. In 1846f Mr. Boles and J. Brotherton formed a partnership in the wheelwright business, whieh continued until 1852, when. Boles died. Prior to this, however, the Germian (or Dutchman) namned Legge did some wheelwright wvork in connection with his black- smithing, near where Reinhardt's store now is. I-e closed in 1849. The first shoemakers in Owen 5-boro were David Morton and Alex. Moreland. FIRST LIVERY-STABLES. The very first was located by Stephen PRogers on the bank of the ravine where the gas-works are now situated, and conducted by him a number of years. It was still standing in 1846E, a very ol(l structure. 335 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. The second was kept by Wim. Sharpe, jailer at the time, in I846, where the First National Bank Building now stands. Soon after- ward Win. C. Norris kept one where Courtney's drug store now is. Then Win. Fielding, on the corner of Frederica and Fourth, where Brotherton Son's stable is. Hle sold to Geo. .Muirphy, he to Howard Glenn. and they to John Brotherton, who has since been a proprietor. About the time of the last transaction, Pointer Cunimings built a stable on Thi rd street, which was afterward kept by Cum- minigs and owned by Burgess. TOBACCO HOUSES. Tlhe first tobacco warehouse in Owensboro was built by James M. PRogers, of logs, about 1837. It was forty feet wide by one hundred long. Soon after it was built it was sold to Peter F. Smith. In 1839 it was burned, and on the site a frame house was built. Hefigh Kem' Co. -The second tobacco warehouse was a frame, built in 1838 by John C. Hobson, Frederick and Win. Ii. Brans- ford, all of Richbmond, Va. Wmn. II. Branstfrd came to Daviess County in the spring of 183S and superinteided the building of the factory. It was 50 x 150, two stories high, with a slhed of twentv-five feet at each end and a shed of the samne width alone one side, making the ground floor 75 x 200, with a capacity of 1.000,000 pounds. This institution was conducted by the firm of W. HI. Bransford Co. for five years, when Mr. 1B. died. The factory was then rente(I for two years, when it was sold to I-u,,h Kerr Co., of Hlenderson, Ky., who ran it until 1S50. It was blurned down April 5, that year, with 800,000 pounds of tobacco in it; but a portion of it was saved in a more or less damaged con dition. Inl the fall of 18.50 the same company erected the factory now sti-ndling between Clay andl Bolivar streets. It is two hundred feet Iong(, fifty feet wide, four stories high, with a shed on the south side twenty-five feet wide, and a warehouse 100 x 50 and two stories high. CGp:;Icity, 1,500,000 Pounds. Rolert Dunlop, Jib-The fourth tobacco house in Owensboro was built in 1852 by John A. Dunlop, at a cost of 8,000, includ- ing the house and grounds. Size of building 150 x 60, not counting the packing-room, which is 150 x 25 feet, one story high. The main building is three stories and basement. The warehouse is 336; OWENSBORO. 100 x 60 feet, two and a half stories high, located on the corner of Fourth and Triplett streets. Its capacity is 350 hogsheads, or 1,500,000 pounds per year, although the business does not justify working to its full capacity. At the decease of John A., Robert Dunlop, Jr., son of David Dunlop, of Petersburg, bought and still runs the factory. Frayzer Bro. -B. Bran sford Co. built the fifth factory, on Elizabeth street, corner of First or River street. In 1856 the company bought this of the Triplett estate, and remodeled and added to the old building, giving it a size 125 x 175 feet, two stories high, with a capacity of about 600,000 pounds. In a few years the firin added 75 x 50 feet to the building, giving to the whole a capacityof 800,000 pounds. This partnership was dissolved in 1862, and the business continued under the name of B. Brans- ford until 1873, when Mr. B. sold to Frayzer Bro., who are now conducting the business. Leo Sims, or Fauld's Factory. -This building was put up by Leo Sims in 1857, and the L's were built by John Faulds in 1878, and main building remodeled. Original cost of building, 10,500; additions, 6,000. Capacity, 800,000 pounds. Sawyer Brodie.-This house was built in 1870 by James Saw- yer and Robert Brodie; size 125 x 40 feet, two stories and base- ment. In 1872 they built an addition of 100 x 40 feet, two stories and basement. The cost of the entire house was about 12,000; capacity, 800,000 pounds, although in 1880 they put up 1,000,000 pounds. The building is situated on the corner of Triplett and Fifth streets. Most of the tobacco is shipped to England. Most seasons they have run full capacity. A. a. Tomnpkins. -The building now occulpied by this gentleman was built by Burbank Bros. in 1875, and the tobacco trade con- ducted by them therein two seasons. It was then rented to Camp- bell Co., and subsequently purchased by Mr. Tompkins, who has held the place ever since. The building is 60 x 180 feet and four stories high; capacity, 1,200,000 pounds. The main building cost 13,500, and is the largest in town. H. P. Yoinpkins' tobacco factory was built by A. C. H. P. Tompkins in 1875, and is now owned by the last mentioned, who bought his brother's interest, in 1877. It is 44 x 150 feet, four stories high, and has a capacity of 750,000 pounds. It is located at the corner of Third and Walnut streets. The warehouse is 22 x 120, two stories brick and two frame. 22 7. 337 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. P. J. fl7ier's tobacco house was established about 1871, by Benjamin Shown, for re-handling tobacco. Size of building 60 x 40 feet, two stories and basement. In 1874 it was purchased by Mr. Miller, who made improvements and used the house for stemming tobacco. In 1875 he built a large addition to the old building, 140 x 60 feet, three stories and basement. The capacity of the house is about 600,000 pounds. Cost of building, including con- tents, about 10,000. In connection with this house, Mr. Miller has a house on his farm six miles east of Owensboro,. which has been used for tobacco since 1858 or 18519; average capacity, 15,000 pounds. le first built a small house, and has made numerous additions from time to time. The building is low, but covers con- siderable ground. Tobacco shipped to London and Liverpool. J. II. Barrett Co.-This house commenced operations in 1S38 under the name of A. B. Barrett. Mr. B. died in 1862. I-le was one of the best business men the country ever produced. His est-ate was worth over 3,000,000. The property was then deeded to-his son, A. B. Barrett. Jr., and was afterward, inl 1867, pur- ch ased by J. II. Barrett, the present owner, and from that time till 187I1 the firm name was Barrett Smith (John 11. Smith); in Sep- tember, 1871, John W. Mathews took charge, and the business las since been conducted under the firm name of J. I1. Barrett Co. Average capacity of building, 1,000,000 pounds per year. Three fourths of the tobacco is shipped to England. Datviess County Co-operative Yowceo Assoieitson.-This com- rany was incorporated in 1878, with the following Board of Directors: Eugene O'Flynn, Joseph King, J. W. King, W. M. Harrison, W. J. Taylor, S. HI. Jesse, and R. L. Ellis. Joseph King was elected President, an office he has held ever since. This company was organized for the purpose of buying, selling, stem- mning, drying and prizing tobac6o, in the city of Owensboro, where the principal place of their business shall be. The capital stock of said corporation shall not be more than 50,000, divided into ten thousand shares of 5 each. In 1879 the house was occupied by James B. Cruse, who put up two crops of tobacco, and in 1880 he entered into partnership with John IR. Chapman. The size of the building is 100 x 40 feet, two stories and basement, and the average amount of tobacco handled is 300,000 to 400,000 pounds. S. V Wallace.-This gentleman built a tobacco house in the fall of 1870, at a cost of 2,000; size 130 x 54 feet, three stories and basement. Connected with this building is a store-room 3838 120 x 50 feet, one story; capacity 1,000,000 pounds. The house has eight prize screws for prizing, latest improved, known as the ratchet. screw. The tobacco is shipped largely to foreign markets. This house ran under the management of Mr. Harris until the fall of 1875, when he went to Louisville and engaged in business there. In January, 1876, J. A. Fuqua managed the house. In 1S78 S. V. Wallace took the management, and has continued it ever since. The building is located on the corner of First and Daviess streets. W.: BI. Clarfke Co.-This factory is situated on McFarland street, between Frederica and Locust streets, and was erected in 1876 by the present firm. It is 130 x 44 feet, three stories high, with warehouse and shop attached; capacity, 500,000 pounds. The firm consists of William H. Clarke and Edward H. Clarke Son. iEamnilton Co.-This tobacco house was built in 1859 by David Hamilton, from Glasgow, Scotland, who was in business here twenty years. Caleb Snyder did the work upon the building, and Mr. Hamilton controlled it until 1878, when he went to Louisville, holding an interest in the business, however, until 1882. In 18778 Geo. N. Thompson became a partner of Mr. Hamilton, and in 1882 purchased the whole interest. The business is now conducted under the firm name of Hamilton Co. This firm has done a very large business in the tobacco trade, the house having a capac- ity of 1,000,000 pounds a year. John A. Miller's tobacco house was built in 1877 bv f. F. Rice and Walter Gowan, under the firm name of Rice Gowan, who did a light business one season. The following year it was occu- pied by Aaron Rosenfeld, and in two years more by Norris Ford and John Burnett, who rented of J. T. Miller, the latter having purchased the property in 1879. In 18S0 John A. Miller rented the property of J. T. Miller, and has conducted the business ever since, although it has passed into the hands of P. J. Miller, who now Owns the house. The size of the building is 100 x 66 feet, two stories and basement; capacity from seventy-five to eighty hogs- heads of tobacco. It is located on Hathaway street, between Fifth and Sixth. In 1881 Mr. Miller put up 233,000 pounds of tobacco. -Turpin Wood's tobacco house was built in 1S77, by A. J. Turpin, who was sole proprietor until the fall of 1880, when the present firm was organized. The building has a capacity of 130 hogsheads of strips. In 1881 the senior member of the firm moved to Louisville, where he has since resided. 339 OWE3NSBORO. HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Hugh Herr Co. (Allan Gilmour).-Stemmery, southwest corner of Second and Bolivar streets; erected about 1850. Size of main building at present, 50 x 200 feet and four stories high. A. shed twenty-five feet wide is attached, and there is a warehouse 50 x 10 feet in connection with the above. Henry Kerr Co.'s tobacco house is located at the northeast corner of Second and Locust streets, and has a capacity of 300 bogsheads. It was formerly occupied by Aaron Rosenfeld, then by Henry Kerr, and lastly by the present firm. F. J. Clarke and J. R. Heckmaen have just formed a partnership (February, 1883) and are buying and receiving tobacco at the McCallister Factory, southeast corner of St. Ann and Front streets. Futqaa Smith's house is at' the southwest corner of McFar- land and Allen streets. Thomas John Reid's establishment is at the southwest corner of Triplett and Fourth streets. Reinhaedt .Akrks' factory was established in 1876. It is situated at the east end of Fourth street, and is a four-story building, 40 x 130, with a one-story L, 100 feet long. They have the capacity to handle 600,000 pounds per year, and ship large quantities to England. After the tobacco is stemmed and packed in hogsheads it is ex- ported to London and Liverpool--the low grades to Germany- through commission merchants. The average product in 1838 was about 1,500,000 pounds, from which there was a gradual increase up to 8,000.000 pounds in 1850, and 12,000,000 pounds before the war. Since that tine it has remained about stationary. A fac- tory of 800,000 pounds employs forty to fifty hands. The season for business opens in November or early winter, and closes about midsummer. There are, therefore, about nine months to work and pack. DISTILLERIES. The manufacture of intoxicating liquors by methods of distilla- tion does not seem to have been understood by the ancients. It is said to have been first invented by the barbarian nations of the North of Europe, and by them was made known to the inhabit- ants of the more civilized countries of Southern Europe. It was formerly manufactured entirely from malt, and unmalted barley or rye, but is now made largely from rye alone, Indian corn, potatoes, molasses, and other articles. All the juices of plants which can undergo vinous fermentation, and all vegetable matter which contains starch, can be made to produce distilled liquors. 340 'I if. it N 4,. v Al W;. 1i. hm -1-e t / , .i mar; / ///, /I / This page in the original text is blank. OWENSBORO. A large proportion of the substances used for food may be thus applied to the production of ardent spirits. Sugar-growing coun- tries produce rum, lands where the vine flourishes produce brandy, and in grain-growing countries distilled liquors are made in the form of whisky and gin. The Chinese manufacture a dis- tilled liquor from rice, and the inhabitants of Kaimlschatka from mushrooms. A great deal of whisky- was formnerly made from the potato. The production of whisky has been very large in the 'United States. Soon after the Revolution its inanufacture was carried on to a large extent in Western Pennsyxlvania, and one of the first serious troubles the Government ealcortntered was the wlhisky insurrection of 1791-'4, growing out of aln attempt to collect an excise tax in this region. The distilleries of the United States were formerly nmuch behind those of Great Britain in the perfec- tion of their machinery, and the wonderful capacity of thie produc- tion of single establishments; but improvements in late years have put them on an equal, if not a superior, footingr. The States now largely interested in the production of whisky are New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky and Mlis-souri. Of the counties in Kentucky largely engaged in the distilling business, Daviess ranks among the first. Distilleries existed here in a very early clay, but it is only within the last few years that the business has been increased to anything like its present pro- portions. There are at present eighteen distilleries within the county. With few exceptions, more grain is grown here than in any other county in the State. This tact accounts for the abun- dance and cheapness of material. The Ohio River furnishes ship- ping facilities of an unequaled character, and the railroad running south. friom Owensboro is always ready to earry freight on reason- able terms. It is mainly for these reasons that the large distilling business of the county has been carried on so successfully, while it has languished and died in other sections of the country. But it is not only in regard to quantity that Daviess County dis- tilleries are celebrated. The county has the reputation of produc- ing as good an article of whisky as can be found in the United States. A very large proportion of the wlhiskv manufactured in Kentucky is in sweet-miash distilleries, which produce an inferior article in comlparison with the product of sour-mash. distilleries. Several of the distilleries are the largest in the State. The claim is justly made that the sour-masih distilleries of Da-iess Countv produce the best whisky in the United States, and this is a fact that is being rapidly appreciated in the market. 341 MSTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Owensboro Distilling Company, consisting now of A. C. Tomp- kins, President; Joseph A. Fuqua, Secretary; N. M. Lancaster and John G. Weir. Their distillery was built in the fall of 1880, and has a capacity of thirty barrels per twenty-four hours. Ca- pacity of the principal warehouse, 10,700 barrels. This building is of brick and wood on the outside, and wood and iron on the inside. Besides this there are four other warehouses of a capacity of 500 barrels each. This institution has been paying good dividends. Their brands of whisky are " The W. S. Stone," " Farmer's Club," and "K Kentucky." Sour-2cesh Distilling Company.-M. V. Monarch, President; P. E. Payne, Secretary; J. A. Brown, Assistant Secretary. A stock company of five or six members, manufacturing the " M. V. Monarch," " Sovereign " and " Jockey Club" brands of whisky. Distillery a mile east of Owensboro, established in 1868, with a capacity of eight barrels a day, now increased to about fifty. fill, Perins, Co. (Alex. Hill, Wm. H. Perkins and Abra- ham F. Berryman).-This distillery was erected in the summer of 1880, and has a capacity of 300 bushels. Location, just west of the city limits, in rear of the Daviess County Distillery. Rock Spring Distillery, Hill IHill (W. H. and T. C., brothers), proprietors. Started in 1881. Capacity 128 bushels, or eleven bar- rels. Four warehouses, affording room for 6,000 barrels. A ten-acre stock lot in connection. Located on the river bank, a mile east of Owensboro. Rill Perkins.-The distillery operated by this firm was built by E. C. Berry in 1866. Its capacity was sixty or seventy bush- els a day. It was conducted by him until 1877, when Alex. Hill and William 11. Perkins became the proprietors. The capacity of the distillery is now 250 bushels of. corn per day, and the brand of whiskv is still the " E. C. Berry." Distillery and office west of the citV limits. R. monarch Co. (Richard Monarch and J. T. Magale), dis- tillers of "1 Sour-Mash Whisky, " i' Kentucky Standard" and " R. Monarch Co." Their distillery was built in the fall of 1869 and started in operation in March. It is located one mile west of Owensboro, on the Lancaster road. Capacity about 750 bushels. Office a few doors south of the Deposit Bank. E. P. Millet Co. (Edwin P. Millet, Richard Monarch and Wm. EI. Monarch) manufacture several celebrated brands of sour- 342 OWENSBORO. mash whiskies. Their distillery was built in 1880, with a capacity of 350 bushels per day. John Thixton Distillery Cornpany.-The wholesale liquor house of Thixton Slaughter was incorporated May l, 1879, it being the oldest wholesale house of the kind in the county. They succeeded the late Dr. A. D. Hill, buying his stock, etc. This company handle nearly all the different brands manufactured in the county. The invoice taken Sept. 1, 1882, showed the capital ill the wholesale house to be 87,000 in whisky. Their sales amount to 150 to 200 barrels a month. The John Thixton Distillery Company was incorporated in Feb- ruary, 1881, the stockholders being John Thixton and Joseph W. Slaughter. The distillery is situated about a mile east of the court- house, and was built at a cost of 18,000, building and equipments all new. The capacity is 280 bushels per day, and turns out 6,500 barrels per year. Their brand of whisky is "The John Thixton Distillery Company, 2d District of Ky." The House is in charge of Mr. Slaughter, and the distillery is under the personal super- vision of Mr. Thixton. John Hanning Distillery.-A building was erected in 1869 by John Hanning, and its capacity was ten barrels a day. It was burned down in the fall of 1880, and in February following the "John Hanning Distillery Company" was formed, consisting of John HIanning, F. T. Gunther and G. W. Crutcher. Mr. Gunther is President and Mr. Crutcher, Secretary. This company erected a distillery below town, on the river, about a mile from the court- house. Capacity, twenty-live barrels a day. Brand, "The John Hanning Hand-AMade Sour-Mash Whisky." Eagle Distillery Coinpany.-In 1869 T. J. Monarch erected a distillery at Grissom's Lauding, having a capacity of five barrels a day; but the works have been enlarged, so that the capacity is now about forty barrels. It was first the " T. J. Monarch Distil- lery," now it is denominated the " Eagle Distillery at (4rissom's Landing." Mr. Monarch is President of the company and Geo. A. Williams, Secretary. Office at the northeast cornerof the Pub- lie Square. The " Eagle Distillery " at Birk City was started in 18S0, with a ten-barrel capacity. Company: T. J. Monarch, President; S. Monarch and Thomlas Shaffel. Office in Owensboro, same as above. The brands of whisky placed int market b)y both establish- ments are the "T. J. Monarch," "Imperial " and "Cliff Falls." 343 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Daviess Cou n ty Dist.Ileey Company (W. S. Harris and John Callaghan).-This distillery was started April 16, 1874, by Cal- laghan Trigg. Mr. Bell afterward bought an interest in the concern, when the firm name became the " Daviess County Dis- tillery Company." In MNlarch, 1879, Mr. Harris commenced, alone, and Oct. 14, 1880, the present partnership was formed. Both these gentlemen reside in Louisville, and their business here is superintended by C. A. Todd, General Agent. The distillery is ocated about a mile west of town, on the river, and its capacity is 800 bushels of corn per day; it has 720 mash tubs and its engine is ninety horse-power. il. P. Jfattinyly's distillery was started at the present locality, ilP a small 'way, about 1855, with a capacity of about sixty bushels. In 1863 Blandford Bro. took possession of it; subsequently II. C. Elliott, thene W. S. Stone, since which time it has been known as the " W. S. Stone Distillerv." Its location is about five miles west of Owensboro, near the river bank, and its present capacity is 275 bushels of corn per day. Da.vieis County Club Listillery.-Building erected in the spring of 1880, with a capacity of 380 bushels of corn per twenty-four hours. The works were built by the club, an incorporated party, but are operated by N. P. Mattingly. Located one mile below Owensboro, on tho Ohio River. J. XK -A. f,;eld.-This house was started Feb. 3, 1873, with a capacity of two and one-half bushels per day. In the fall of the samne year MIr. Field increased the capacity to six barrels a day. In 1880 the capacity was again increased to eight barrels a day; in April of the same year he doubled the capacity, making sixteen barrels a day, and in April, 1881, it was increased to its present capacity-twenty-five barrels a day. Mr. Field has conducted the business from the beginning. J. T'. Welch Distilling Company.-Organized about the first of March, 1881. Building was erected during the spring, with a capacity of about 400 bushels of grain per day. It is located about a mile and a half above Owensboro. J. T. Welch, President, lives in McLean County; R. S. Triplett, Vice-President; S. V. Wallace, Secretary; A. Rosenfeld, Treasurer. A. T. Harris, Jr., of Louisville, is also a member. Boulware Wi;l/oyte's distillery, four and a half miles south- west of Owensboro, was erected in 1880 by M. Boulware Son. Clarence Boulware originally built the main structure for the pur- 344 pose of making apple brandy. In the spring of 1881 the present firm of Boulware Wilhoyte was formed. The capacity of this distillery is seventy-five bushels a day. C. L. Applegate Co., Yelvington. OTHER ENTERPRISES. Owensboro Woolen M3ills.-This establishment was started soon after the war, by 0. S. Warner Co. It was burned down in 1873 or '4, and the loss fell heavily upon Dr. A. C. Wood. The engine was a twelve-inclh cylinder. The spinninig-jack ran 210 spindles, wbich kept eight looms in operation, producing 150 yards of cloth daily, thirty-four inches in width, which sold wholesale at 1.15 a yard. Two sets of cards were in constant operation doing custom work, which turned off 200 pounds of rolls a day, the cost of which was from ten to fifteen cents a pound for carding. The blankets made were two and a quarter to two and a half yards in width, weighed seven and a half to nine pounds, and were entirely free from grease. The jeans they turned out was four, five and six leaf, and thirty-four inches wide. Twenty-five operatives were employed, all industrious and of un- impeachable character, and the firm composed of gentlemen of the highest business integrity. The factory has not been rebuilt. Steffen Bishoyp's carding-mill is located on the north side of Fourth street, opposite Poplar street. Troutman, Rarick Co. (Al. V. Monarch), manufacturers of hubs, spokes, wagons, carriages, plows, etc., and dealers in agricult- ural -implements, at the junction of Fourth street with the Litch- field road. Messrs. J. P. Troutman and Peter Rarick started at this place, first as blacksmiths, about twelve or thirteen years ago, in a frame building, which was burned down in 1S74. Immediately af- terward they built a brick shop, which still stands as a portion of the present establishment. In 1876 they were partially burned out again; but these enterprising gentlemen still again rebuilt, went ahead with an increasing business, adding the manufacture of wagon material and dealing in agricultural implements. In 1881 Mr. Monarch was admitted to partnership, and the coin pany put in new machinery, added other buildings. and commenced the manufacture of hubs and spokes on a large scale, employing about forty hands and a sixty horse-power engine. They now have 345 OWENSBORO. HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. two two-story brick buildings, one work-shop, one two-story frame, besides engine-house and numerous sheds. Of the two-story structures the lower rooms are devoted to work and the upper to storage. Carriage painting, trimming, etc., is done in the second story of their large frame building, and one or two of the fore- mentioned sheds are really large two-story structures, the upper portions of which are devoted to storage. John, J. Hill's Hub and Spoke Facto'iy.-Tliis house was built in 1862, by Richard Smock, for a flouring mill, and was occupied by him three or four years. It was then converted into a distillery, and was used by J. G. Bailey and John Taylor two years for mak- ing sour-mash whisky. Taylor retired and Bailey ran it alone one year. It was then seized and sold by the Government, and pur-- chased by William J. Lumplin, who used it as a flouring mill six years. The building was then unoceupied for a year, when it was rented by Fuqua Wise for a flouring mill. These men were unfortunate; the boiler was burned by a careless engineer, and they only used the house about six months. Sept. 1, 1882, it was rented by John J. Hill, who converted it into a hub and spoke factory, using the boiler and engine that were put in after the for- mer was burned. Ile leased the building and power for one year, with the privilege of retaining it for an unlimited time. Ilr aver- ages about seventy-five sets hubs per day, running full capacity. Owensboro Wbeel Company.-James Weir and John Moorman, doing business uinder the style of Weir Moorman; John Delker and W. F. Reinhardt, doing business under the style of Deller Reinhardt; and John Reinhardt and John W. Marks, doing busi- ness under the style of iReinhardt Marks, Dec. 11, 1882, associ- ated themselves under the style of the Owensboro Wheel Company,- this partnership to continue ten years, unless sooner dissolved by a vote of the majority. The design and intent of the association is the manufacture of wagon, carriage and buggy wheels; and their place of business the city of Owensboro. The capital stock of said company is 15,000, subscribed by the parties in this association,, and divided into thirty shares of 500 a share; but the association reserves the privilege of increasing the stock to 30,000 if a majority of the stockholders shall so determine. Building not yet erected. Southern Whteel and Handle Company.-Owned and operated by Weir Moorman since Aug. 19. One-story brick, 125 x 40, with wing 75 feet. The firm manufactures spokes almost exclu-- 346 sively, but turns out single-trees, ax handles, hammer handles, etc. The capacity is about 15,000 spokes per day, which are ship- ped to every principal point in this country, also Europe and South America. J. G. Deliker, Manufactutrer of Furniture and Chairs.-This business was established in the fall of 1870. Cost of building and machinery, about 18,000. Building was burned in Febrnary, 1872, after being in operation about sixty days. Loss, 13,000; insured for 3,000. In April the manufactory was re-built, both buildings being made of brick; cost of new building and machinery about the same as the old house with the addition of the old foun- dation. Began running in May, 1872, making a general line of furniture, which continued until 1881. Dec. 1, 1882, a change was made in the business; firm organized under the name of Delker Reinhardt,-J. G. Delker and W. F. Reinhardt in the manufacture of rims, and felloes, and carriage material. A stock company just organized is using the second floor of the building in the manu- facture of wagon and carriage wheels. The corporation consists of the firms of Weir Moorman, Delker Reinhardt, and Reinhardt Marks, with James Weir as President. Directors are John Moorman, W. F. Rein lardt and John Marks. Corporation or- ganized Dec. 11, 1882. Machinery was purchased and operation begun 1st January, 1883; capital stock, 30,000. John 1R. Osborne Son's Planing-Mill was built in January, 1875, by Thornton Osborne. In May, iS75, Thornton sold to J. R. Osborne Son, who have since conducted it. The value of mill and property, including machinery, about 5,000. Located corner of 7th and Railroad streets. They manufacture sash, doors, blinds, moldings, frames, cornice and stair work, counters, man- ties, brackets, etc. Trade extends over county and Southern Ken tucky. Have also a saw-mill at Livermore, McLean Co., Ky.; value, 2,500. It was erected in 18S0, run in connection with mill, preparing logs for mill. At their planing-mill they supply the distilleries with material for whisky tanks, fermentors, water tanks, stills, mash trougling, blow-pipes, etc. This is the oldest firm in city in this business. Their trade has doubled each year since they commenced. They turn out only first-class work, for which they have a large reputation. During the fall months of 1881 they were running day and night on distillery work, when the distilleries were running to their full capacity. They ship a great deal of wal- nut and other lumber. Owing to their increased trade they con- OWENSBORO. 347 4HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. template enlargements of the buildings this spring (1883), with addition of new and improved machinery, which will enable them to turn out still more work. William D., son of J. R. Osborne is the business manager. J. H. laylor's Planing-Mldl.-This is a large mill on the bank of the river at the foot of St. Elizabeth street. Size of the main building, 60 x 90 feet; engine, thirty-six horsepower. Both hard and soft woods are dressed here, and the patronage is local. The proprietors have been: Barron, Marble Co. (Lakin Field) Marble, Ificks Co. (Larkin Field, D. C. Carter and Michael Carey), hicks, Field Co. (Carey and Carter), Hicks Carter, J. H. Taylor. Owensboro City loaundry is situated on the corner of Fifth and Poplar streets, and was built in 1868 by J. A. Castlen, William King and T. H. Guthrie. The main building was 40 x 60 feet; the molding-room, 30 x 60 feet. It was a frame building, but in 1881 a brick one was erected in its place and enlarged to 60 x 150 feet, with a pattern-room in the second story. The molding- room as enlarged is 40 x 60. In 1869 Mr. King withdrew from the partnership and it was continued under the firm name of Castlen Gutlirie until 1872, when Mr. Castlen sold to Stephen W. Long, and in 1881 Benjamin Bransford was taken in as a partner, since which time it has been conducted as Guthrie, Long Bransford. The business consists of all kinds of castings, railroad and mill work, steam engines and mill machinery, and all kinds of repairs- An average of twenty mechanics are employed in its various de. partments. Joshua C. TerrilP' 81ouring Mill was erected in 1874 by Mr. Terrill at a cost of 8,000, including machinery. Size of main building, 60 x 30 feet, three stories and basement. The engine-room is 37 x 25 feet, 45 horse-power engine, 24 inch stroke. There are two warehouses, one nf them 60 x 30, and the other 25 x 40, one story. The mill is located on Fourth street, near corner of Triplett street. Improvements have been made from time to time, and during the fall of 1882 new machinery was put in at a cost of 7,000. Capacity of the mill is 100 barrels flour per day. They do a large exchange business with farmers in this and some adjoin- inog counties, part of the time running day and night. Ogden Mills.-The first structure here now constituting the larger part of these mills was built in 1856-'7, by Ogden Bro. (John D. and Ben H.) for a furniture manufactory; but finding that -348 OWENSBORO. Mr. J. Thomas had concluded not to rebuild his flouring mill, in place of the one burned dowvn, Messrs. Ogden turned their works into a mill of that kind, attaching also the machinery for wool- carding which Jo Daveiss (" Judge ") had previously used for two years. They did some carding for about ten years. The flouring mill, with three run of burrs, was started into operation in Jan- uary, 1857, and for all the works two eight-inch cylinder engines were used. Since then the building has been considerably enlarged, a sixty horse-power engine substituted, and two runs of burrs added. John D. Ogden is the proprietor, his brother, Ben. H., having died. The polite and jovial Marcus L. Ogden, another brother, is the bookkeeper. The proprietor manufactures the "New Process, " IIGold-Dust," and " Gilt-Edge" brands of flour, and does both merchant and custom work. Mills on St. Elizabeth street, near the Planters' Hotel. TV J. L. Lumpkin's Flouring Mill.-Located at the foot of Crittenden street. Built in 1880, 40 x 60 feet 'and three stories high above the basement, besides engine-room; eighty horse- power engine; started with five run of stone; now have a roller- mill added. Capacity, 120 barrels every twenty-four hours. Be- sides the mill the proprietors have a warehouse and elevator, 40 x 100 feet, and also three stories high above the basement. They do both merchant and custom work, dealing in flour, meal, grain and mill offal. Brick, Man,yfrecturerss.-According to the Directory of 1882, the following were manufacturers of brick last year: Robert G. Crutch - field, west side of Triplett street, ,just north of' McFarland; Wal- lace II. Decker, north side of Fifth, west of Vine; Sweeney Co., west side of Lewis and south of McFarland; Mrs. Christine Tennes, south side of Fifth, second west of Vine; and Terrill Jett, east end of Second street. Cigar fan vfacturers. -C. H. Bottonweior, northeast corner of second and Elm streets; A. Helinke, west side of Frederica and sixth door south of Second. Express Con'panies.-R. R. Hathaway, next door south of the National Bank, is agent for both the Adams and the Southern Ex- press Companies. Phillips Bros. IJkAtee, Dry Goods, Notions and General Store.--This house was built the summer of 1881, at a cost of 26,000. The room fronting Main street is 471 x 100 feet; the room fronting on Daviess street is 90 x 40 feet, three stories; cel lar full size of building; wall, water-proof; cellar is cemented. 349, HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUrNTY. The first floor fronting on Main street is used for dry goods, no- tions, boots and shoes; the portion that fronts on Daviess street is used for groceries. That part of the second floor that fronts on Main street is used for clothing, carpets, window-shades, trunks, etc.; the second floor on Daviess street, for queen's-ware and millinery. Third floor front of building is the wholesale depart- ment, and third floor fronting Daviess street is used for farming impfements of every description. The house is arranged with all modern improvements. Yearly sales are over 150,000. Trade extends to all the surrounding country and Southern Indiana. Phillips Brothers reside in Lebanon, Ky., and the house is under the immediate supervision of T. W. McAtee. Citzens' Building and Loan Association.-This was organized in the summer of 1872, under the general law, to enable its mem- bers the more easily to erect buildings in the city of Owensboro. It was governed by a board of directors. The capital stock was formed by subscribed shares of 1 weekly payments. Any share- holder, by giving real-estate security, could borrow of the capital fund thus created a sufficient amount to aid him in the construction of a dwelling at a fair rate of interest and on a long credit. First officers: R. H. Taylor, President; Jo. Thomas, Secretary; P. T. Watkins, Treasurer; and J. W. Feigoan, Attorney. Present offi- cers: W. T. Owens, President; R. S. Hutghes, Secretary;J. H. Mc- Henry, Attorney. The association is inactive at present, but in former times it has done a great deal of good. Mechanics' Savings Association.--This was organized some time after the foregoing, for similar purposes; but it has not accom- plished much. Peoples' Whaaf-Boat and Transfer Company was organized about 1369, the incorporators being R. S. Hughes, John S. Wool- folk, John B. Scott and J. D. Powers. The object of the company is the transportation of freight and passengers, by either rail or river, to any point. They have a good wharf-boat here. Capital, 25,000. The present stockholders are: R. S. Hughes, Hamilton Alexander and J. D. Powers. The latter has always been Presi- dent of the corporation. Mr. Hughes is Secretary and Treasurer. The Owensboro and Roecport Transfe Company, consisting of J. H. Cox, R. Monarch and J. H. Triplett, was incorporated Dec. 29, 1882, for twenty-five years, " to build, buy and sell steamboats, machinery, barges and wharf-boats, and use and navigate the same for the transportation and forwarding of freight and passengers be- 350 tween Owensboro, Ky., and Rockport, Ind., or anywhere else de- sired, and all other purposes for which steamboats and barges and wharf-boats are adapted or used." Capital stock, 2,300, in shares of 50. Commenced business Feb. 1, 1883. Have a large wharf- boat at Owensboro. Run the H. M. Sweetser at present, mainly between Owensboro and Rockport, three trips a day. John H. Triplett, Jr., Agent. Steam Ferry Compaity.-This company was formed in June, 1882, as a stock company. President, T. S. Anderson; Secretary and Treasurer, R. L. Courtney. They run a very large, nice ferry- boat, charging teamsters only two fifths of what the law allows. This is the first steam ferry ever run at this point, the boats hereto- fore having always been run by hand. Owensboro Water Company.-This company was incorporated Sept. 9, 1878, for twenty-five years, and. consisted of Dennis Long, of Louisville, John G. Barrett, Donald McPherson and Samuel A. Miller. Authorized capital stock, 80,000, and a board of seven directors to control, who are elected annuallv on the second Monday in September. Mr. Long proposed to the city council to erect the works on the Holly system, on condition that the city would take fifty-five fire plugs at 75 each per year. This proposition was accepted, and the contract for building the works was awarded to Coverdale Cowell, of Cincinnati, who completed them by the following July. Two engines and two pumps were placed in the establishment, with a capacity of 2,500,000 gallons daily. The engines have cylinders twenty-five inches in diameter by thirty inches stroke, and are eighty horse-power. The pumps, which are located at the bottom of a shaft thirty-three feet deep are fourteen inches in diameter by thirty inches stroke. There are two boilers, sixteen feet by five feet each, with fifty-four three and a half inch tubes, set separately, so that either or both can be used at pleasure. The buildings are substantially built of brick, with stone trim- mings. The smoke stack is seventy-five feet high. Aug. 11, 1880, a boiler exploded, half ruining the water works. Cause unknown. The present officers are: Dennis Long, President; H. H. Hlutchi- son, Secretary and Treasurer, both residents of Louisville. The Gen- eral Manager is Samuel A. Miller, and Henry P. Martin, Super- intendent, succeeding J. M. Carson, December, 1882. The average amount of water consumed per week is about 2,000,000 gallons; 351 OWENSBORO. HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. but when all the distilleries are running, as high as 2,500,000 gallons have been raised by the works. Brush kl7eetric Light and Power COmnpany.-This also is an incorporated stock company, organized in October, 1882. W. F. Reinhardt, President; Joseph Lee, Treasurer, and J. W. Porter, Secretary and Manager. The other incorporators are John Rein- hardt, Geo. W. Jolly, T. J. Higgins. Capital, 5,000, in shares at 100, all taken. The company start out by using a sixteen-light dynamo, each light of 2,000 candle-power. The enzine-power is rented of J. G. Delker. Up to date about 4,000 have been ex- pended in the enterprise, and at present there are thirteen sub- scribers. Telephone.-In the spring of 18S0 J. W. Porter organized the "Owensboro Telephone Exchange." The incorporators were Geo. 'V. Williams, M. V. Monarch, T. J. Monarch, and J. W. Porter. A. V. Monarch was elected President; Breck. Speed, Secretary and Treasurer, and Mr. Porter, Superintendent. They immediately put up lines and commenced operations, connecting with Henderson and Evansville, and ran under this req;me until May, 18S2, when they sold out to the Evansville Telephone Exchange, which has eight or ten counties. There are 113 patrons in Owensboro. The central office is on St. Ann street, opposite the east door of the court-house. City Hall.U-This building was formerly the " Bransford Insti- tute" (see further on, under the head of Educational), and was purchased of him by the city in 1871, at 10,000. The Police Court is held in the lower story, and the Common Council in the upper. lb lG'8 Opera Rouse.-This is the second and third stories of the large business block erected by Frank L. Hall in 1869, at the southeast corner of the public square. Size, 88 x 105 feet. Cost, 20,000. At that time it was the finest building i Owens- boro. It was afterward appraised at 30,000. The ceiling is eighteen feet above the floor. It is the only dramatic hall in the city. Owensboro Fire Department.-For many years previous to the date of the city charter the citizens of Owensboro had often dis- cussed the question and long felt the need of some sort of an insti- tution to enable them to effectually meet and conquer that great enemy of city and town-the "raging flames." Accordingly, in 1866, when Owensboro assumed metropolitan proportions and was 352 OWENSBORO. granted a city charter, to meet the growing demands of this rising commercial center, the Owensboro Fire Department was organ- ized. The department is equipped with an excellent steam fire- engine-the Ben Bransford, No. l, purchased in 1872. The offi- cers of the department are: A. F. Alms. Chief; W. J. McGee, Engineer; F. Q. Washburn, Driver. Four men compose the force. It costs the city annually about 8,500 to supply the current expenses of the department. The Town Clock was completed and set running during the first week of December, 1868. The tower was not originally built for a clock, and the County Court ordered the necessary changes made, which cost 200. The clock cost 350 in Boston, Mass.; the weights were cast in Owensboro, at a cost probably of about 150. The time weight weighs 250 pounds, and the striking weight 1,000 pounds. All the expenses of this enterprise were borne by private subscription. The magnificent bell was bought by Judge Triplett, of Wm. Kaye, Louisville, and cost 450. It weighs about 1,200 pounds. Owensboro Gas Comtpany was organized in June, 1860, as a stock company, with shares at 100. Capital, 25,000. Number of shares taken, 189. The first officers were T. H. Pointer, President; R. H. Taylor, Secretary and Treasurer; M. J. Miller, Superintendent.. Directors: T. H. Pointer, S. M1. Wing, F. L. Hall, A. Gilmour, and J. H. Blair. M. J. Miller was the con- tractor, who took one third of the stock, the trustees of the town took one third, and citizens the remainder. The works are located at the foot of St. Elizabeth street, and have a capacity of 15,000 cubic feet daily. Present number of street lamps, 112. The lot of ground was purchased of Wing Bransford, for 1,200. The works have been enlarged, and mains very much extended. At first the price of gas was 4 per thousand feet, but the present rate is only 2.25. During the war, at one time, when coal was very high, gas rose to 6 per thousand feet. Present officers: A. Gilmour, President; P. T. Watkins, Secretary and Treasurer; James York, Superintendent. City Railway Company.-This was organized in September, 1877. A sufficient amount of stock was subscribed, it was thought at the time, to build the proposed line; but the prospect of increased stringency in commerce led the company to postpone further action indefinitely. It seems now, however, that the en- terprise, if pushed through then, would have proved remunerative. 23 353 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Printinq, Offiees.-Tbere are four job printing offices in Owens. boro. Those of the iessenger Examiner and the Saturday Post are already alltded to in Chapter VIII. 0. T Kendall Co.'s, on the same floor with the latter, was opened Jan. 15, 1880. The "C Co. " comprises George Walter Parrish, and W. E. and I. N. Parrish. Ernest Bishop's is on the north side of Second street, a few doors east of Frederica street. Fritz Luethi's book bindery is on the north side of Second street, fourth door west of Frederica street. Rosenthal's Bottling Works, on the north side of Second street, near the railroad, is still flourishing. Bottling beer, ale and other liquors is the enterprise here. WItch Factory.-This never existed in Owensboro, but a move- ment for the establishment of one was- inaugurated in 1882, by fifteen men, who proposed to put in 1,000 each for the object. A donation of eight acres of land, however, was asked, and a unbscription stock to the amount of 60,000. The chief operators of this scheme were parties from abroad, and not being exactly the inen for the place, the proposed enterprise " fell through." BANKS. First National.-This is the newest by name but the oldest in business, of all the banks in the city. The first bank in Owensboro was a branch of the " Southern Bank of Kentucky, " and was es- tablished here Aug. 5, 1850, with the following Directors: Wm. Bell, Simpson Stint, Christopher D. Jackson, Junius B. Alexander, Samuel M. Wing, James H. Blair, Win. T. Short, S. M. Moorman and Philip Triplett. Aug. 12 tollowing Mr. Alexander was chosen President and James B. Anderson, Cashier. The principal bank was at Louisviile, and was a State bank of issue. In June, 1853, Mr. Alexander resigned his presidency, and was succeeded by Wm. Bell. Ile moved to Louisville, thence to St. Louis, and during the war moved to New York. In all these places he followed banking, made a fortune in New York, retired, and now lives on Staten Island, N. Y. In 1855 Wmi. Bell was succeeded as President by S. M. Wing. April 1, 1864, the institution was changed to the " Planters' Bank of Kentucky. " Air. Anderson died in October, 1864, and his son, T. S. Anderson, was chosen as Cashier in his place. May 24, 1870, Mr. Wing resigned, and Daniel M. Griffith was chosen Presi- dent in his place. Sept. 1, 1S71, T. S. Anderson resigned, and 354 OWENSBORO. Phil T. Watkins succeeded as Cashier. March 6. 1872, Mr. Grif- fith resigned as President, and R. H. Taylor was appointed in his place. Messrs. Taylor and Watkins still retain the positions last named. Joseph Thomas is Teller. Nov. 1, 1881, the bank was converted into the "First National Bank of Owensboro, Ky." Capital, 137, 900. Present Directors: R. H. Taylor, J. D. Powers, E. H. Luckett, A. J. Turpin, A. Rosenfeld. James H. Hickman and M. V. Monarch. Deposit Bank.-This was established Oct. 1, 1860, with a capital of 50,000, since increased to 200,000. Hon. Thos. C. McCreery was President from the commencement to Feb. 17, 1864, since which date Mr. James Weir has had that position. W. B. Tyler was Cashier from the first to the time of his death, Dec. 4, 1877, since which time John Wandling has fulfilled the place. Present Directors: Wm. N. Sweeney, Ben. Bransford and F. T. Gunther. John H. Smith, just deceased, leaves a vacancy on this board not yet filled. Following was the condition of this bank Dec. 30, 1882: RESOURCES. LIABILITIES. Bills and notes discounted. 444,160.76 Capital stock. 200,000.00 Debts in suit .............. 3,236.51 Deposits ........ ......... 269,776.38 Real estate (for debt) ....... 13,662.82 Bills re-discounted ... ..... 98,923.00 Stocks and bonds .......... 34,000.00 Dividends unpaid ........... 100.00 Banking House.8,000.00 Dividend No. 41 5 per cent. 10,000.00 Sifes and office furniture ... 2,000.00 Due banks ................ 2,459.91 Revenue Stamps ........... 175.00 Balance of contingent fund. 2.512.14 Due from banks............ 39,850.01 _ ' Cash....................38,686.33 583,771.43 583,771.43 Owensboro Saving8 Bank.-This institution was chartered by the Legislature in January, 1871, and began business Feb. 17 fol- lowing, in the room next door to the postoffice, on St. Ann street. While cashier of the Planters' Bank, of this city, Mr. T. S. Ander- son, now President of the Savings Bank, saw the necessity of a bank that would meet the wants of all, and he and his brother, W. K. Anderson, conceived the idea of establishing such an institution in Owensboro. Their business so increased that their old quarters began to be too small; and they built, at the northwest corner of Main and Allen streets, one of the finest bank and office buildings in all the West, which they now occupy. The charter of this bank makes all the private property of its stockholders, in addition to the capital and surplus, liable for its corporate debts-the best guarantee of its safe management, and one that is offered by no other bank in this city. James H. Parrish is Cashier. 355 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Following is a statement of the condition of this bank at the close of business Dec. 30, 1882: RESOURCES. Discounted paper .......... 246,424.67 Real estate for debt ........ 4,560.79 Bonds and stocks ......... 19,975.00 Banking- house ............ 14,082.53 Bank fixtures and furniture. 2,513.65 Due by banks ............. 44,079.23 Cash...................3... 1,053.22 Total... 362,689.09 LIABILITIES. Capital stock.. .25,000.00 Surplus fund....... 20,000.00-- 45.000.00 Deposits........ 317,689.09 Total........ 362,689.09 Farmers Traders' Bank.-This is situated on the north side of Main street, six doors east of Bolivar. L. Gray is President; A. J. Mitchell, Vice-President, and Win. Ei. Moore, Cashier. This bank was opened for business Nov. 16, 1876, at the above place. The first Directors were: Dr. A. D. Hill, President; L. Gray, Vice- President; A. J. Mitchell, J. B. Cruse and W. T. Elliott. E. B. Colgan, Cashier. The corporation was organized as a stock com- pany. Dr. Hill died Dec. 20, 1877, and L. Gray was elected President in his place. Mr. Colgan died Aug. 18, 1877, and Wm. H. Moore was appointed Cashier in his place, which position he still holds. Following is their last semi-annual statement, which shows the present condition of the bank, Dec. 30, 1882: RESOURCES. Bills and notes discounted. . 110,465.08 Due from banks ........... 11,663.39 Cash on hand .............. 12,034.04 Debts in suit ............... 73P00 Furniture and fixtures...... 1,326.35 Protest account ............ 12.82 136,273.68 LIABILITIES. Capital stock paid up...... .. 32,000.00 Due depositors.............. 90,918.23 Dividends unpaid ........... 195.00 Dividend No. 12 this day de- clared ... ................ 1,600.00 Amount due as interest to Jan. 1 .................... 944.20 Profit and loss account ...... 10,606.25 136,273.68 HOTELS. Planters' Hotel.-This is the only first-class hotel in Owensboro. Its most ancient predecessor bad the same namne. It was the first hotel in the city, a frame building, erected by Timothy Biir- gess. In the process of time, a more commodious edifice becom- ing necessary, this was moved to the rear of the lot to be occupied by colored servants, while oln the old site was put up a handsome two-story hotel, which is a part of the present block. It has been raised one story and wings added. Mr. Burgess sold the building 356 OWENSBORO. about 1875. He died in 1879, aged seventy-nine, and considered one of the wealthiest men in Daviess County. Mr. Flemming was the next proprietor of the building, and the next and present owner is Dr'. J. F. Kimnbley. The Washburne h1ouse, now kept by the proprietors of the Plant- ers', was built in 1877, by DanielK. Griffith, who r ented it to H. T. Washburne, and the latter admitted to partnership Geo. D. Mattingly. Afterward he sold his interest to Alex. Moreland, and the firm became MIattingly Moreland, the present proprietors of both buildings. The Washburne building in 1878 was sold to Mrs. M. L. Crockett, wife of Americus Crockett, of Louisville. It stands on the site formerly occupied by a grocery, which had been pre- viously the Southern Bank, and the Planters' Bank. The first story is 22 x 134, and the second and third stories are 44 feet in width. The proprietors of the business of the Planters' Hotel have been Mr. Hathaway, J. C. Ashby, 0. IH. Hughes, Jaynes F. Smith and now Mattingly Moreland. The two buildings contain sixty-five furnished rooms. Tran sient rates, 2 a day. About 90 to 100 is the average daily number taking meals at this house. The Planters' House has had a long and eventful history, and the noteworthy instances occuring in connection with it may be numbered by hundreds. The following comes to hand: In 1875, when the " civil rights " law prominently occupied public attention, and Mr. Hathaway was conducting the above institution, a, negro presented himself one day for accommodations, under the aforesaid law concerning hotels. Mr. H. refused him on the ground that this was not a ' hotel,' lbut a private boarding house." Spoerri's Rotel.-This is located on the northeast corner of Second and Elizabetlh streets which is only a square from the wharf. John Spoerri, proprietor. .Monitor H1otel is on the west side of Frederica street, only half a square from the boat landing. J. II. McCullough, proprietor. Palmer hIouse, east side of Frederica, about opposite the last. Thomas Palmer, proprietor. Brooks' hotel, west side of Frederica street, between Third and Fourth streets. F. W. Brooks, proprietor. Neal House, northwest corner of Second and Pearl streets, or about four squares east of the depot. 357 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. OWENSBORO INDUSTRIES IN 1880, BY THE CENSUS. CAPIT'AL. 3 Blackstniths .. 8.50 1 Bed-Springs ........... 3 Bakery and Confec'y... 11 Carpenters............. 1 Carriage Works........ 1 Cigar-Maker........... 6 Coopers............... 1 Foun(lry and Mach..... 1 Horse-Shoer........... 1 Gas Works........... 1 Mattress-Maker........ 2 Publishers and Printers 4 Painters and Glaziers... 1 Plumbing and Fitting.. a Planing Mills ......... 2 Shingle Works........... 5 Saddle and Harness.... 1 Sheet Metal Work..... 8 Tinners .............. 1 Merchant Tailor....... 2 Wagon-Makers......... 1 Blacksmith and Wagon. 1 'Marble Works......... 1 Wool Carder ......... 17 Tobacco Factories..... 5 Boots and Shoes ........ 1 Tannery.............. 1 A-ric'l Implements.... 3 Flour Mills............ 3 Meat Packers.. 3 Brick Yards........... 1,300 8,01!0 5,940 3,000 2,:000 4,300 8,000 1(0 23,000 1,000 8,100 1,775 3,000 70,500 700 7,700 1,000 4,900 4,000 400 300 1,500 475 498,158 2,400 2,000 7,500 39,000 2,400 3,150 WAfiES PAID DURING Y'R. 1,736 1,353 2,150 9,832 2,000 1,24f8 9,720 4,800 1,100 2,300 800 3,500 5.700 1,500 21,548 1.250 3,006 3,6(10 4,575 1,560 1,137 1,000 6,000 408 55,606 4,785 2,600 3,120 7,9.57 1,000 4,093 VAIL. 0 F MATER[A. 1,484 1,000 9n500 30,900 4,000 800 3,140 7,500 500 2,000 1,200 2,850 11,3f10 2,800 50,925 1,600 11,400 7,000 7 300 4,000 662 1.000 3,000 816 440 529 5,632 12,600 3,750 92,028 12,580 2,69)5 VAL. OF PRODUCT. 3,872 5,000 15,900 53,025 7,500 3,500 26,575 14,0110 1.700 7,000 2.500 8,400 19 400 2,500 88.346 3,100 21.600 12,000 13 500 7,500 2,400 3,000 10,000 1'500 537 445 12 032 25 007 8.778 125.340 18,068 11,000 Properly to interpret the above, the usual allowance for the sin- gular, freakish defects of the census must be made. . 1;_ I . i CI-IAPTER XVI. OWENSBORO, CONTINUED. EDUCATIONAL. Daviess County Seminary.-The oldest school building in Owensboro is the southernmost brick structure of what is now the Upper Ward School. It was erected by Philip Thompson. in consideration of which a number of town lots were deeded to him by the trustees. The ground on which this house was built was originally donated to the town for school purposes. The institution was chartered about 1S20. The most eminent teacher here in earlv day was probably George Scarborouglh, a relative of P. T. Watkins and a native of Massachusetts. He taught school in this place about 1830 to 1840. On leaving here he sold a large collection of geo- logical specimens to parties in this place, for use in the public schools. He went to Kansas, and from there to New Jersey, where he at a recent date was still residing. Owensboro Academy.-This was started in the old Daviess County Seminary building about 1853, by Professor H. P. Hart, assisted by Mr.Palmer. This was one of the best schools Owensboro ever had. After a few years Professor Hart was succeeded by H. M. Woodruff, who subsequently edited the Owensboro -Monitor; and in 1857 Malcolm McIntyre was employed as assistant. Profes- sor Burke was instructor of languages; Professor Halbey, of music; and for a time Mrs. Lillie Singleton had charge of the female department. Geo. L. Reinhardt was also assistant for a time. Profs. Hart and Woodruff erected the second brick buildino joining north of the original one. The great war put a stop to this school. Many prominent and talented men have been educated at this academy, among them Rice E. Graves, who was afterward educated at West Point, went into the Confederate army and was killed at Chickamauga; John C. Pegram; Amos R. Taylor, a lawyerof St. Louis; E. Rum iseyWing, Minister to Equador; Weir Wing, Lawrence Reid, Lemuel and Estill Mcdenry, Samuel Morton and others. Professor Hart went to Texas in 1872 or '3 and died there. His widow is now teaching (359) HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNT'. in the public schools of Owensboro. MIr. McIntyre is still here, in the revenue collector's office. During the war this institution of learning flourished in Owens- boro, under the principalship of Colonel John H. Allen of Mary- land, a graduate of West Point Military Academy and an intelligent Christian teacher of eighteen years' experience. All the branches- of a collegiate course were taught in this academy, including military drill. Trustees: S. M. Wing, President; W. B.Tyler, B. Bransford, D. M. Griffith, J. 1I. Branham, R. M. Hathaway and G. 11. Yeaman. School was kept in this building generally about ten months in the year during its long history. Directlv after the war the Baptists proposed to establish a col- lege in Owensboro, with a charter. Accordingly, Feb. 13, 1866, an act of the Legislature was approved, authorizing the following Board of Trustees, in behalf of the " Central Baptist Educational Society," to occupy the aforesaid property: Dr. J. F. Kiinbley, C. R. Moorman, W. B. Tyler, J. M. Dawson, Rev. J. C. Maple, J. N. Peav, and Dr. Joseph Otis. This board was authorized to confer all literary degrees, as in the best institutions of learning. Thus they obtained the premises, on condition that they would erect another building at a cost of 10,000. They erected the building and called Prof. J. H. Gray to open out the school. The Professor organized the institution as a male school, and conducted it successfully for five years. He was assisted at first by Dr. Otis, and afterward by Prof. Pointer. The attendance ranged from fifty to sixty, but during the last five months the pupils numbered about forty, and Prof. Gray was alone. About this time the citizens of Owensboro made a move toward establishing free schools; and as the college was sustained princi- pally by local patronage, it was seen that it could not be kept up in competition with free schools, and the institution was therefore abandoned, and the building sold to the city. Walker's School.-Prof. W. G. Walker taught school for six or eight years, commencing in the spring of 1862, in the boarding- house building on St. Ann street, afterward purchased by Mr. Bransford. He had as many as forty or fifty boarding pupils, be- sides about sixty from the city. It was a most flourishing school, but, under neglect, it gradually died. Bracnsford lnstitute.-In the year 1862, Mr. Benjamin Brans- ford, for whom the institute was named, purchased a lot and build- 860 OWENSBORO. ing on St. Ann street, between Third and Fourth streets, then used as a boarding school, and erecting by its side a two-story addition, opened a school for the use of the general public. The need of a properly conducted institution of this kind had long been felt in Owensboro, as there were no free schools in the State at that date, and parents were obliged to send their children to other cities where educational facilities were to be found. Mr. Bransford moved alone in this enterprise, and devoted much time and a small fortune to the furtherance of the project. The building erected for this purpose was 75 x 45 feet. The rooms were fitted up with the best improved furniture and modern appliances, purchased principally in New York. The building was dedicated on Christmas eve, 1862, and was on that occasion christened "Bransford Institute." It was chartered under the laws of the State of Kentucky. Prof. Win. Marriner, of Lebanon University, was engaged as principal, the school remaining under his charge for three years. Rev. E. B. Crisman, M. A., of Memphis, succeeded him one year, followed by Proft Armstrong two years. It was then presided over for two years by Mrs. Miller, wife of Rev. A. B. Miller. At the expira- tion of the last term, the city and county had adopted the free- school system, and the Institute was no longer a necessity. After the suspension of the Institute Mr. Bransford sold the property, the new building being purchased by the city and now in use as the city hall; and the older portion to Mr. Bl. Auer, who has turned it into a tenement house. Mr. Bransford expended nearly 35,000 in building and fitting uip this school, and realized but about one- third that amount in the sale of the property afterward. While the school was in operation he turned it over to the respective prin- cipals, asking only that his children be educated there. Daviess Academy.-This was taught, near the close of the war, bv Rev. H. T. Morton, Principal, and Rev. J. C. Maple, Instructor in Mathematics. Central Baptist College.-An association of Baptists, just after the close of the war, asked the Legislature to place the Owens- boro school building (now Upper Ward) under their control, for the purpose of making it the seat of a college. The Vaughan Female Institute, located on the corner of Fourth and Walnut streets, was first organized under the direction and management of Mrs. E. Sue Phillips in 1868, and was chartered by the Kentucky Legislature under that name. Mrs. Phillips car- ried on the school successfully for several years, and was suc- 361- HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. ceeded by Prof. J. H. Gray, then by Prof. Wm. Wines, and then by Prof. Thos. W. Mitchell, a minister. The school is now (1883) under the management of Mrs. M. F. Van Rensselaer and Mrs. Al. E. Klinger, with a competent corps of teachers. The princi- pals of the school mentioned above have all been experienced teachers of long standitng, and, by faithful and earnest work, have made the school a necessity to the city and neighborhood. In connection with the school is a boarding-house, under the super- vision of the teachers, where pupils from a distance can find ample accommodations. The enrollment for the present year is over 100 pupils, with a present attendance of seventy-five. The English branches, bookkeeping, higher mathematics, draw- in,,, painting, music, French and Latin are taught-the last men- tioned by Rev. B; D. Cockrill. Owrensloro Clta8sieai Schtool.-This is taught by the veteran educator, Prof. J. HI. Gray, in a fraime building erected for the purpose, 18 x 32, on Bolivar street, between Fourth and Fifth. Attendance about thirty-eight. Strict discipline. Thorough in- struction. " Excelsior" school furniture. Common and higher branches taught. includingg a complete collegiate course. Prof. Gray is personally well known to the Owensboro people, he hav- ing organized and successfully conducted the Baptist College, the Owensboro graded schools, etc., and having had thirty years' ex- perience as a teacher-- fifteen in a standard college. Tke "Azerican- Germzan School Association" was chartered and organized in Janulary, 1863, for the purpose of instructing the German youth in all the common branches, including English. They employed two teachers most of the timie, built a school-house in the upper part of town, and taught a flourishing school until about the time the free-schools were established in 1871; They _supported their schools by subscription mostly; a small fund was drawn from the public treasury. Business ansd Colnnercicd Schools.-The principal teachers in this class of schools in Owensboro have been Dr. J. Otis, J. H. Crutcher, and Geo. W. Crutcher. PUBLIC SCHOOLS. March 13, 1871, an act of the State Legislature was approved constituting the city of Owensboro a school district, independent of the general school laws of the State. It places the public schools of the city under the control of a Board of Trustees, to be elected by -362 the people,-three from each of the two wards, " To be elected for a period of two years, and at the same time and place that city coun- cilmen are elected. The peculiar features of the charter are, the re- quirement that the German language shall be taught, and that no colored pupils shall be admitted into these schools. The schools are to be supported by a special public tax; but the trustees may issue bonds to the amount of 30,000, not exceeding ten per cent. This act was ratified by the citizens April 6, following. The ordi- iiary "pear cabpita" is drawn from the State fund. Thefirst meeting of -the trustees under the provisions of the foregoing charter was held the next evening, the Mayor, S. D. Kennady, ex-oficio President, when the Trustees elected were found to be, Dr. W. D. Stirman, John Wandling, Camden Riley, John Thixton, Philander Read and J. H. Branham. Dr. David Todd was appointed Census Taker and J. H. Gray, Superintendent of Schools. Messrs. Wandling, Riley, Stirman and Read were appointed a committee to ascertain what property could be bought for school purposes, and the probable cost of the same. The first Friday night of each month was fixed as the time for regular meetings. May 3 it was determined to have one ward school in each ward. May 12, Messrs. Riley and Stirnian were appointed a committee to draft plans and specifications for a building in the Second Ward, sufficient to accommodate 275 to 300 pupils. May 19, plans and specifications drafted by John Fields adopted, and a committee -appointed to advertise for bids; the board offers 11,000 for the Baptist College, for a school-house in the First Ward. June 5, contract for building the Second Ward school-house was awarded to George Brown, of Owensboro, at 7,820, and 12,000 was ordered paid for the Baptist College building. Lower Ward school building erected 1871, at a cost of 12,000 for building and furniture. Capable of accommodating 300 pupils. The building has six rooms, including the basement, wl)ich has re- cently been fitted up to accommodate increased number of pupils. attending. The foregoing is a sufficient introduction to the series of pro- ceedings had by the trustees of the Owensboro public schools for white children. Statistics must tell the rest of the story. The following is a list of teachers from the first to date: Superintendents.-J. H. Gray, 1871-'3; F. Griffin, 1873-'4; A. 0G. Brown, 1874-T'; S. T. Lowry, 1875-'81; John B. Solomon 1881 -'2; A. C. Goodwin, 18S2-'3. 363 OWENSBORO. HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Principals of the Bigh, School.-P. A. Pointer, 1872; S. T. Lowry, 1873-'5. Prinieipals oft the first Ward School.-P. A. Pointer, 1872; Mrs. M. E. Kiinger, 1872-'3; S. T. Lowry, 1873-'5; W. M. Fisher, 1875-'7; N. H. Decker, 1878-'9; Mrs. M. E. Klinger,1879-'82; W. A. Hester, 1882-'3. Principals qf the Second Ward School.-S. T. Lowry, 1871-'2; P. A. Pointer, 1872-'3; Mrs. M. E. KIiijger, 1873; W. M Fisher, 1874-'5; Mrs. M. E. KEitger, 1875-'9; M. G. Stirman, 1879-'80; Miss Laura Hughes, 18S1-'3. Teachers of Intermediate and Primary Grades.--Mrs. A. E. Klinger, 1871-'2; P. A. Pointer, 1871-'2; Mrs. Viola Moseley, 1871-'5; Mrs. Mary T. Ayer, 1S71-'7; Miss Lou C. Colgan (Airs. Moore), 1871-'4; Miss Anna J. Colgan, 1871-'4; Miss Vallie B. Williams, 1872-'3; Miss Laura JHughes, 1872-'81; Mrs. Rachel A. Wandling, 1S72-'83; Mrs. Ml. E. Van Rensselaer, 1872-'80; Mr's. Mary A. Hart, 1873-83; Mrs. Fannie Conway, 1874-'83; Miss S. L. Swale, 18 74-'6; iMiss Ella Hawes, 1875-'7; Miss Laura Mayo, 1876-'82; Miss Annie Howard, 1876-'81; Mrs. Sallie Taylor, 1876-'9; Miss H. A. Wines, 1877-'81; Miss Vitula Jones, 1877- '83; MNlrs. C. V. Boyd, 1878-'9; Miss C. C. Tyler, 1878-'83. Miss Maria Moorman, 1878-'9; Miss Hart Cowan, 1878-'9; Miss CorniaNaghel, 1879-'82; Miss Lizzie Field, 1879-'83; Mrs. Ml. L. Singleton, 1880-'3; Miss Lee Brown, I 8S0-'2; Miss DMary F. Halsel, 1881-'2; Miss Sophia Gash, 1881-'3; Miss Mattie I-laney,1881-'3; Mliss Lutie Thomas, 1881-'3; Mrs. C. W. Cerf, 1881; Miss Sallie Daly, 1881-'2; Miss Mamie Woodsmall, 1881-'3; Mliss Carrie Green, 1882-'3; Miss Annie Brown, 1882-'3. Teachers of Gerrnan.-Mr. De HTly, 1871-'2; 0. F. Schultz, 1872-'3; Miss Weitlauf, 1874-'6; Miss Nenwohner, 1877-'8; F. Baner, 1879-'81l; Rev. HI. F. Deters, 1882-'3. Besides the fore-mentioned, Mrs. A. J. Swiney and Miss Laura Hu ghles were "Senior teachers " in 1875--'6, and H. A. Wines, 1877--'8; and C. R. Bishop was "Assistant in First Ward, " in 1871--'2. The mayor of Owensboro was ex-officio president of the School Board until recently. The law is so changed that the board shall elect its own president. The present incumbent of that office (1883) is Ht. P. Tompkins. The present board comprises S. H. Ford, Dr. E. H. Luckett and B. F. Rice, of the First Ward; and Dr. C. H. Todd, George Brown and I. W. Sutherland, of the Sec- 364 ond. The present standing committees are: Finance-Todd and Brown; Salaries and Supplies-Sutherland and Luckett; Build- ings and Grounds-Ford and Sutherland; Printing and Revision- Brown and Ford; Grievances-Luckett, Rice and Todd; Rules- Rice and Todd. Boardc qf Trustees.-H. P. Tompkins, President; Dr. S. H. Ford, Dr. C. H. Todd, George Brown, Dr. E. H. Luckett, J. F. Rice and R. W. Sutherland. Instructors.-Prof. A . C. Goodwin, Superintendent; Prof. W. A. Hester and Miss Laura Hughes, Principals; Mrs. F. Con- way, Miss Carrie Green, Mrs. M. E. Hart, Miss Lizzie Field, Mrs M. L. Singleton, Miss Vitula Jones and Miss Mamie Woodsrnall, Intermediate teachers; Miss Fannie S. Colvin, Miss R. A. Wand ling, Miss Lutie Thomas, Miss Annie Brown, Miss Mattie Haney, Miss Sophie Gash, Miss C. C. Tyler, Primary teachers; and Rev. H. F. Deters, German teacher. 1871.-President, ex qflicio, S. D. Kennady; Trustees, John Thixton, John Wandling, Camden Riley, Dr. W. D. Stirman, Philander Read and J. T. Branham (resigned, succeeded by Charles Werner); Clerk of Board, Ed. Morman; Superintendent, Prof. J.H. Gray. 1872.-President, Ben. Bransford; Trustees, Dr. W. D. Stirmnan, George W. Williams, Charles Werner, John Wandling, Dr. C. II. Todd and Dr. B. IIr. Hobbs; Clerk, E. B. Colgan; Superin- tendent, Prof. J. H. Gray. 1873.-President, Ben. Bransford; Trustees, Dr. C. El. Todd, Dr. B. H. Hobbs, Charles Werner, R. W. Sutherland, L. W. Marble and John Wandling; Clerk, E. B. Colgan; Superintendent, Prof. J. H. Gray, succeeded by Prof. Frank Griffin. 1874.-President, George Brown; Trustees, R. W. Sutherland, L. W. Marble; John Wandling, Dr. C. HI. Todd, Charles Werner and Dr. J. Q. A. Stewart ; Clerk, S. F. Lowry; Superintendent, Prof. Frank Griffin, succeeded by Prof. A. G. Brown. 1875.-President, George Brown; Trustees, Dr. C. TI. Todd, Charles Werner, J. Q. A. Stewart, L. W. Marble, John Thixton and B. H. Hobbs; Clerk, S. T. Lowry (resigned and succeeded by David F. Todd); Superintendent, Prof. A. G. Brown, succeeded by Prof. S. T. Lowry. 1876.-President, George Brown; Trustees, L. W. Marble, John Thixton, B. HI. Hobbs, J. Q. A. Stewart, S. H. Ford and 365 OWEN;SBORO. HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Dr. C. H. Todd; Clerk, David F. Todd; Superintendent, Prof. S.- T. Lowry. 1877.-President, George Brown; Trustees, J. Q. A. Stewart, S. II. Ford, Dr. C. H. Todd, J. H. McHenry, T. H. Frayser and Dr. B. H. Hobbs; Clerk, D. F. Todd (died, succeeded by W. H. Owen); Superintendent, S. T. Lowry. 1878.-President, John Thixton; Trustees, J. H. McHenry, T. H. Frayser, Dr. B. H. Hobbs, R. W. Sutherland. James Kennady and John Wandling; Clerk, W. HI. Owen; Superintendent, Prof. S. T. Lowry. 1879.-President, John Thixton; Trustees, R. W. Sutherland, James Kennady, John Wandling, F. J. Clarke, Henry Megill and Dr. C. C. Watkins; Clerk, W. H. Owen; Superintendent, Prof. S. T. Lowry. 1880.-President, James K. Tharpe; Trustees, -F. J. Clarke, Henry Mlegill, Dr. C. C. Watkins (resigned and succeeded by T. H. Frayser), John Wandling, J. F. Rice and R. W. Sutherland; Clerk. W. H. Owen; Superintendent, Professor S. T. Lowry. 1881.-President, James K. Tharpe; Trustees, John Wandlin R. W. Sutherland, J. F. Rice, Dr. E. H. Luckett, H. B. Tomp- kins and F. J. Clarke; Clerk, W. H. Owen; Superintendent, S. T. Lowry, succeeded by Prof. John B. Solomon. 18S2.-President, H. P. Tompkins; Trustees, Dr. E. H. Luck- ett, J. F. Rice, Isaac Sullivan, Dr. S. H. Ford, Dr. C. H. Todd and George Brown; Clerk, W. H. Owen; Superintendent, Prof. John B. Solomon succeeded by-Prof. A. C. Goodwin. ENROLLMENT AND ATTENDANCE. ENROLLED. AVERAGE DAILY ATTENDANCE. 1879-3........................... 642) 474 1873-4 . . .... 652 534 18745 . ..0 ..... 760 534 187.5- ...................................... 753 504 1876-7. ................ 714 492 1877-8...... ...............I............... 1878-9. 179-80............................... 571 1880-1............. ..... .... .... 895 620 1881-2 ....... ............. 829 621 1882-3....................................8.30 655 1966 OWENSBORO. EXPENSES FOR 'TWO AVERAGE YEARS. 1879-80 . 1881-2. Salaries ............... .......... ............. 7,787.50 7,922 85 Supplies......................................... 423.763 68530 Fuel .......................................... 100.30 192.6.5 Buildings and rounds . .803.76 698.7 2 Books for invalid children. . 19.43 16 32 Cash expenditures............. S,722 64 9,505.61 The wages of the Principal of the First Ward School is 70 a month; of the Second Ward School, f60; of primary teachers,, 37.50; of teachers in the intermediate and grammar departments. 40. Colored School.-This is supported almost exclusively by the State fund, which yields, since August, 1882, 1.30 per child of school age. Previously the per capita had thirty to fifty cents. There are now about 500 colored children of school age (between six and twenty years) in the city of Owensboro. Their school building, on Poplar street, between Third and Fourth, was erected- in 1879, is of brick, and 30 x 40 feet in dimensions. Average at- tendance about 200. The teachers are Lewis Metcalf, Principal, and Mrs. Anna Vairian and Owen Barrett, Assistants. We wish we had space here for biographical sketches of all the school teachers of Oweusboro from the earliest times to the pres- ent, especially of those who remained here some time and endeared themselves to the hearts of many children. An account of each school would also be interesting, but we have been limited to an outline of a few of the most prominent. Among the most noted teachers we have already mentioned Mr. Scar borough. We may add here four or five others. Prof. P. A. Pointer first taught in the Baptist College in this place, then in the public schools, next in Bethel College at Russell- ville, and afterward in various other places until his health failed. He is now dead. Prof. Wim. Wines, a brother of the noted F. H. Wines, sociol- ogist, of Illinois, was a most excellent teacher. He was connected with the Vaughan Seminary for some time, in its earlier history. Prof. Wm. Marriner, Principal of the Bransford Institute about three years, was from Lebanon, Tenn., and was a superior teacher. His wife also was person of strong mind and a high order of' talent. 367 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Prof J. H. Gray: see chapter entitled "Authors and Artists." Prof. A. C. Goodwin, present Superintendent of the Owensboro City Schools, was born in Clarke County, Ind. After finishing the common-school course he attended a classical academy in Jeffer- sonville, Ind., and then a full course at Boyd's Commercial Col- lege, Louisvil]e, Ky. At the age of seventeen, during the war, he accepted the place of hospital steward at Jeffersonville; afterward he followed railroading, then spent three years at Kentncky University, Lexington; next was Principal of the Jeffersonville (Ind.) High School; then returned to Kentucky University a year, and then was Principal of the Male High School at Jeffer- sonville a year. He was County Examiner and Superintendent 1870-'82, when he resigned and came to Owensboro. By 1880 Prof. Goodwin had attained so great a reputation as an educator that he was placed by the Democracy of Indiana upon their ticket for State Superintendent of Public Instruction; but, it will be remembered, the Republicans carried Indiana that year. Dancing lJaster.-The most prominent, if not the only, dancing master who ever taught the Terpsichorean art in Owensboro, was H. C. Lippard, who first came here about 1858, and has made periodical visits since that date, excepting during the war. CHURCHES. St. Stephens' Catholic.-The first religious services according to the Catholic faith were held at the residence of W. Coomes, about a mile below town, once a month, by Rev. Wathen. The pastors since then have been: W. S. Coomes, 1841, to August, 1855; Eugene O'Callaghan, September, 1855, to March, 1870; Ivo Schacht, March, 1870, to April, 1874; A. J. Brady, May, 1874, to Nov. 1, 1877; D. F. Crane, Nov. 1, 1877, to the present. The congregation now comprises 235 families. The church building, three squares west of the court-house, was erected many years ago; and were it not for a stringency of the times at present, a larger edifice would be erected. Mass every Sunday. Catechetical instruction at St. Francis Academy at 2 r. m. St. -Francis Academy and St. Stephens' Parochial School.-The day-school for Catholic children was first taught in the old Daviess County Seminary building; but now it is kept in a large house built for the purpose, on Third street. The front portion is a two- story frame, and the rear a two-story brick. There are now eight 1368 teachers employed-Sisters of Charity of Nazareth: Eulalia, Sister Superior. Rev. W. S. Coomes died in Louisville about 1874; Rev. O'Cal- laghan is now in Fairfield, Nelson Co., Ky.; Rev. A. J. Brady is pastor of the congregation at the Lou-isville Cathedral. Father Ivo Schacht died in April, 1874. He was horn in Brutes in 1821, and came to America in 1842; was ordained at Nashville in 1843; pastor ot the cathedral fifteen years; then missionary among the Indians in Kansas; in 1861 was appointed to St. Al- phonsus Church, this county, where lhe was instrumental in the building of two churches and two flourishing schools. Next lie was appointed to Lebanon, where he built a fine clhurch; thence to Danville, Paducah, and finally to Owensboro, where he endeared himself to the hearts of many people. iev. D. F. Cwane was born in the city of Louisville, Ky.. in May, 1843. His preparatory studies were completed in the Sern- inary of St. Thomas, near Bardstown, Ky., after which he was sent by his bishop to the American College of Lonvain, Belgium. Here he attended the course of the famous Universitv ot Louvain, and received the degree of Bachelor of Divinity. lie was ordained to the sacred ministry in August, 1867, and immediately returned to his native country. The first year of his ministry wvas spent as professor in St. Mary's College, Marion County, Ky. I-Ie then, by order of the Bishop of Diocese, took charge of the congregations of Shelbyville and mission. This latter at the time embraced the counties of Shelby, Spencer, Henry, Oldham and Trimble. After- ward he was sent successively to St. Patrick's Church, Louisville, Henderson, and to the Theological Seminary near Louisville. In the seminary he filled the chairs of Mental Philosophy and Moral Theology. Placed in charge of the congregation at Lebanon. Marion County, he labored there for two years. whence he was removed to his present position in October, 1877. St. Joieph's Church (Catholic (rerman).--In 1S70, while Rev. Callaghan was pastor of St. Stephen's Church, an English-speaking, congregation, the German element wvas separated fromn it and or- ganizedi as St. Joseph's Church, under Rev. Father Volk, of West Louisville, this county. The namnes of the first members were: Paul Tennes, Michael Crans, Victor Strehl, Henry Dillmnann, Jacob Meis, George Sehaffer, Joseph Rose, Henry Rose. John Gillis, Franklk Canimuff, Andy Eger, etc. The first religious set-vice was held in 24 369 OWENSBORO. HIS T0lOY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. the school-house, corner of Thirl and Mulberry streets, and Father Volk was the first pareac 1her. Iii 1871 the Geli an Catholics built a frame church near McFar- latid stieet. in Triipett's and Sweenie's Precinct, 80 x 30 feet. The churth wIas dedicated. and the first service held by Rev. Father Seliaclit. who was theen pastor of St. Stephen's Chlurch. The firs- resident pastor was E. Al. Bachman. who preached his first ser inon here June 1S, 1872. He preached one year, then went to E-iipe tfr a year, Rev. Fathier Westerman supplying his pnlpit during Lis absence. Fathier Bachmnan remtined pastor of this church until 1S78, when he was called to St. Louis by Rt. Ptev. Bishop Win. McCloskey. Rev. P. J. Haeseley was then sent to take charge of St. Joseph's congrecation. Alay 12, 1878, the frame church on the hill was burned; cause unmlnown. Bv order of the Rt. Rev. Bishop, Fathier Haeseley blni it a teniporary church, 20 x 30 feet, on the site of the old church. In Otober of the same year a lot WAs purchased of W. Speed, cor- ner of Fourth and Clay streets, and the present brick church was ereeted thereon. . Size of building, 86x 43 feet. March 7, 1880, thle nu-w church was blessed and service was held thercin by PRev. P. J. Ilaeseley, the present pastor. The new church is not yet quite eomiipleted. The cost of church and lot is about 10,000. MisSions wvere given in the temporary church by Bronsgeat -Hillman, and a second one in the niew church by Rev. Chrysostonius Toffa, 0. B., in 0-tober. 1882. The present officers of the church are Andy Eger and A. M. Ptreitenbach. The congregation comprises about sixty-five fami- lies. Cathechetical instruction is given every Sunday, at 2 P. M., by the pastor in the church and by the sisters in the school-house. Since Februarr, 1881, two Ursuline Sisters have been teaching the scho.)l near the present church on Clay street. Nutmber of pupils, seven tv-ti.,lt. Rev. I' J. Ifae.se7ky was born in Switzerland in 1830, and came to America in 1856, landing at New York, March 25. Ie at- tended St. Thomas' Seminary, Nelson CGaunty, Ky:, seven years, thien studied theology at Mount St. Mary's College and Seminary at Cincinnati, and in 1867 was ordained to the gospel ministry at the cathedral in Louisville. I-e was first stationed over the con- gregation of St. Martin's at Louisville, and then ten years in a German settlement about ten miles from Paducah, Ky., where lie built a church, and lastly, in 1878, he came to Owensboro, arriv- 3,(0 OWENSBORO. 31 ing here Feb. 18, since which time he has been pastor of St. Joseph's C(hurch (Catholic), as noted above. Baptist Oh'/uroi qf Ovea.sboro.-April 1, 1834, Owensbor'o lad about 50 peop)le, amuong whom were two Baptists, botlh ladies. These were Sister, Miller and Pickett. April 3 of that year, George N. McKay and wite, both Baptists, caine flom Taylorville to this place. During the sanme year came William Ilead, Irwood Daniel and wife, from Shielby Countsy; Mrs. G. W. Tripl; tt. from (Great Crossing, Scott County; Johiti Stout ad wite from Buck Creek, Slhelby County. Rev. Reutiben Cottrell commenced preach- ino, here in the spring ot 183 [, during which year lhe baptized two colored women. On Saturday before the second Sunday in May, a Chur'ch was constituted in the seminary by Revs. Reuben Cot- trell and Tlhonmas Downer, with eighlt white and eighteen blagk members. At the next meeting William Head, Mrs. Miller and Mrs. Tarlton joined. Mr. Cottrell was chosen Pastor, William Hood, Clerk, and L Stout, Deacon. John L. Burrows, a youmng man from New England. was in Kentucky as agent for the Clhina mis- sion, and V\isited Owensboro about Aiarch of 18:38 or 1839. In the early part of alv lie commenced a pr Aracted meeting lhere. Elder Ben Crouch was h l ding a quarterly meeting. Mr. Burrows p)roposed a union meeting,, but Mr. Crouch refused, awl went on witlh his meetings until Wednesdcty night, wheon lhe closed. M'r. BIu'i'ows tlhen went inlto a union ineetinho with the Metbodist circuit-rider, and Sami. Etlhoun. a lay pireaclhe'. Tiie people Caine only to hear Mr. Burrows, s , after a day or two, hle did all the preaching. The mnetino's lasted about siK weeks, and there were 200 pel'sons converted, of wlhoin 100 joined the Baptist churclh. Mr. l3urr'owv wvent from here to Pleasant Grove, seven miles west of town, where about 100 wei'e converted. le also went to Henderson, where lhe contitnted a church of about 100 members. le was called to stiuply the pulpits of these two churches, pmreachimg two Sundays- at Owensboro and one at Henderson. This task he accepted, and performed for some tine. In September, 1840, Mr. Bui'rows aand wite were, at their own request, dismissed from the societs-, and went to the Fifth Baptist of Plhil-adelphia. He had been very popu- lar with all his people, and they parted with hiai with regret, knowing how useful his labors had been for the Owensboro church. Rev. J. G. Howard, who had joined the church by letter in May, 1839, was now ordained as the pastor. He served the 371 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COuVTY. church faithfully for about two and a half years, although part of the time preaching but once a month, when Rev. Alfred Taylor was chosen pastor. In December, 1845, Rev. D. E. Burns was called to preach the first and fourth Sundays in eachl month. Ile preaclledl regularly during t846, and then went to another section of the country to labor. Rev. Alfred Taylor became pastor of the Owensboro church in January, 1817, and preached until May, 1848. when lhe resigned. The churmch was unable to secure the services of another ipastor until the followin; Jannary, when Rev. V. E. Kirtlv was chosen pastor, at a salary of 550. The church now had regrular services ev ery Sunday, for the first time in many years. Mr. Kirtly resigned in January, .1851, being appointed agentfor the Kentucky and Foreign Missionary Society. During 1851 the church had no regular pastor, but in January, 1852, they secured the services of Rev. L. L. leltn, at 600 pci' aflnnfum salary. HIe resigune( in August, 1853, and was followed by Rev. R. C. BIuckner, who cornmenced his labors here Oct. 15, 1854. Mr. Buckner resigned in Jui)e, 1855, and was parted with by his congregation with much regret. The next pastor cal!ed was Rev. N. P. Waller. Ile accepted the call. but (liedl on his journey to Owensboro. The church was again without a pa-;tor until May, 1856, when Rev. A. B. Smnith took charge of the church. remain- ing until September, 1S58. He was followed by IRev. B. T. Taylor. who preached until the fall of 1861, whenl he resigned. These were troublous times for the Owensboro Baptist church, as wvell as for thousands of other churches, many of which died en- tirely from the dissensions arising, from the war of 1861-'5. In MAarch, 1862. Rev. A. B. Miller became pastor of the Owensboro church. I-e was succeeded, in December, 1864, by Rev. J. C. Maple, who left in 1868. Then caine Rev. C. C. Chaplin, of Vir- -i nia. who remained with the congregation uitil 1873, and thene resignecl to accept a call to Paducah. Il-e was a verv popular maln, and his loss was felt. Tlhe next to fill the pulpit of the Owensboro church was Rev. T. C. Stackhouse, of Greensburg. Ky. After p)reaclhing two years, lie returled to G-reensbur(g. lIe was snuceede(d by the presellt pastor, Dr. J. 13. Solomlon, of Sharon, Pa. The present mnembership of the church is 40(). The Clerk of the church is W. II. Owen; Treasurer, Dr. S. II. Ford; Finance Conmnmittee, Y. L. Ford, J. W. Colemian, and J. E. Sutton; Deacons, Y. L. Ford, James HI. Parrishi, Dr. B. H-l. Ilobbs, L. Linipkin, J. B. Cruse, John S. Moberly, and John S. Brown. 372 This page in the original text is blank. 3M -- :-_-, -1, I OWENSBORO. The Sunday-school has a membership of 135, and is in a flourish- ing condition generally. Rev. Josiah Bv idqes Solomon, Pastor of the First Baptist Church of Owensboro, was born Jan. iS, 1824, in Franklin County, N. C., and is the first son and third child of Jeremiah and Elizabeth (Bridges) Solomon, natives also of North Carolina. MIr. Solomon's grandfather, William Solomon, settled in the Isle of Wight County, Va. During the Revolutionary war, when the British obtained possession of Virginia, he moved into North Caro- lina, where lie ultimately died, at a very advanced age. Ile was very pious, and on his death-bed he insisted that his attendants should help him out, so that he could get upon his bended knees and pray. Assuming this suppliant attitude, he prayed for his children, his grandchildren and his great-grandchildren, etc., down through the ages to conie. After his death four of his soils became ministers of the gospel; and every grandchild of his is a Christian. The wife of William Solomon was a Gordon. and a descendant of a Scotch clan of that name. Jeremiah was their youngest son, and the father of the subject of this sketch. The latter has the blood of four nationalities on his father's side-English, Scotch, French and German, and two on his mother's-English and Welsh. His father died in 1852, and his mother is still living. Mr. Solomon was reared on a farm. At the age of eighteen he embraced Christianity and joined the Baptist church, being bap- tized by Rev. P. 11. Smith, in November, 1843. He obtained a good academic education, surpassing his classmates in the classical languages, mathematics, natural philosophy, mental and moral science, etc. He then attended Wake Forest College, from which he afterward received the degree of A. M. After teaching school a year or two he was appointed a missionary by the North Carolina State Convention, and preached as a missionary for two years in the counties of Davy, Rowan, Davidson and Surrey. Here his work was very hard, but at the same time the happiest of his life. From his labors in this field grew four churches directly, and indi- rectly a number of others. His health failing lhe returned to the farm two years; he then, in January. 1854, took charge of the church at Warrenton, N. C., where lie continued eight years, increasing the membership from 25 to 150. While here he ac- cepted a challenge to a discussion with a Methodist, which resulted in his having to baptize a large number of the Methodist church at that place. 373 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. In 1860 Mr. Soloinon accepted a call to the pastorate of the Leigh Street Church, in Richmond, Va. In the spring of 1861 the war broke out, and Mr. Solomon prosecuted his duties as pastor, giving all the time lie had at command to the sick and dying in the hospitals. A young licentiate of his church was chaplain in Libby Prison. Two of the prisoners protbzsed faith in Christ, and sought baptism at the hands of Mr. Solomion. After conferring with the deacons of the church the prisoners were brought forward under an armed guardl, related the ground of their hope, were re- ceived, dressed, baptized, andl changed their dress after baptism under gunard. It was the most solemni scene hle ever witnessed. During his pastorate in Riclmonl his chlurch increased from about 325 to 475. As an illustration oof feature of paper currency, we digress here to mention that wheni lhe left Richmond in 1804 flour was selling at 81,250 a barrel, in Confederate scrip. Mr. Solomon then. 180,5-'6, passed two years on the farm again in North Carolina. In 1867 he became President of the WVarrenm- ton Femiale ( ollege-a large school, which flourished under his superintendence except pecuniarily. Ile then opened aii " individ- ual" school in Pruntytown. W. Va. and soon after the opening (f the second year of his school lie was elected to the protessorshlip of English Literature in West Virginia University, located at Morganrtown. After two years he resignedl this position and be- came President of Aonlnongahlela College at Jefferson, Pa. DDuring the two years of )is work here he raised 1,000 for finishing the college buil]diii and 20,00() for endowmeint. In October, 1875. Dr. Solomnon accepted a (all to becoine pastor of the First Baptist Church at Sharon, and remained there till the close of January, 1880, when lhe catmle to thtis present clharge. iMr. Solomon. of course, has beeii a delegate to various State anid national conventions of the ininistry of his church; has held presi- dencies, seeretarvships, etc., in them, land nmany other offices in thle gift of his people. Some of his sermnons have been l)ublislled in pamhldet form, andl he has contributed able articles to various periodicals. Ilis present library is a solid miass of learning. In Oetobcr. 1849, tlhe subEjeet of this sketch was marriedl to Miss Mary M1. itur-es, a native of \Warrentonm County, N. C . the daughter (of Jolhn and -Martlha (Alston) Burges, and a direct (lescendant of B ishop Burges, of the Episcopal church, who was a private instructor of Miss Dandridge, afterward the wife of the great George Wash- ington. Mrs. Solomon's maternal grandfather was an officer in 374 the Revolutionary war, and although entitled to a large pension, he would never receive a cent, saying that it was ignoble to receive wages for performing patriotic duty. Mrs. Solomon's motler waIS a first cousin ot the faitlier of Aaron Burr's son-in-law. MIr. and Mrs. Solomon lhave five living children, nainelv: William Th1omlas. a merchant in Clieag-o; John Burges, Ino-w teaclhing izi Parker'S Grove Academy, La Rue Connty. Ky; 1Jo-seph 3e1ll boo-,kkeeper in a wholesale house in C('hicago; Loula Estelle. n(o)w Mrs. JoIlln A. Reeves, of Warren, O(t'o; and Mlary AT., teacher of misie in Soutl Kentucky College. Ivalnet St, et B )tist ('/eurcl.--Tl1is church \wa X (-)rgallized as Ash Valley Church," Nov. 5, 187, at A.sh Vt-allev School- house, about t(our miles below Owensboro, by R-vs. 1). E. Yeier and J. At. Peay, after a series of mieetings held bY tlese mlinis ters. The maini organization W.IS composed ot about thirty Ineill- bers (lismnissed by letter tromn other Baptist c urlrc es,, aion- whom w1ere R. C. Fuqua. Saral I. Fu(qjua, R. M. Fuqua. Willie Fuqua, W. T. Lea, Mt. E. Lea, E. G. Adams, MA-Lary C. Adams'. 6rilbert ilagerman, S. P. ILluerlnan, C. L. N-all, S. 1. Nall. Joseph Carlin, Saralh J. Carlin, J. W. A\(orthlii'tctn. t'obert Patri(k, Fannie Patrick, AY. 11. Sands and othfers. Tue ollicers were elected at a called meeting, Nov. S. 1876: W. T. Lea. :Mod- erator; Gjilbert Tiagermnai, Clerk; Joseph' Carlin, Treasurer; clurll ieeting, the Saturday before the fourth Sunday in eacli month. Nov. 12, -Ts76, R. C. Fuqua, E. (G. Adams and Jusepdi Carlini wiere ordained Deacons by I-evs. D. E. Yeiser and 1B. Y. Cundilt. w. T. Lea, liins-i, beenl iesi0usly (rldained, was called to active JDeacmnsldip Dec. 28., 1i8, and Rev. D. U. Yeiser was elected Pastor. Nov. 24, IX, 7, E. G-. Adams was elected iModerator, and C. L. Nall. Treasurer. Oct. 1S, 1878. it was decided to mo-e the church to Owensboro, which they did, and then joined in a series of mneetings which were being held in Turpin's tobacco factorv, in time west end of the city, by rRev. J. A. Peay, a missionar\ frotm the Daviess Coumty Association, assisted by Dr. J. S. Coleman. At a regular meeting held Nov. 23, 1S78. tlme name of Ash Valley (1rChur, IIehih had been adopted, was changed to AValnut Street B1aptist ChulIlrclh, of Owensboro. A. large number of members were received from timne to timee, some by letter from the First Church of Owensboro, and some by baptism, am,.ong, whom were William N. Mason, Enialine Alason, J. D. Robinsoni, Fannie Robinson, S. T. Lowry, Mary Lowry, John Moorman, Jennie Moorman, 375 OWENSBORO. HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Cecilia V. Boyd, Pauline Collins, Mollie J. Cox, and others, fromn First Church, and George IH. Cox, Lizzie Talbott, John R. Phil- lips, and several others, by baptism. Dec. 21, 1878, E. G. Adams was re-elethed Moderator, and George H. Coxwas elected Clerk. The place of meeting was changed to Mrs. E. Sue Phillips's school-house, corner of Fourth and Walnut streets. Jan. 25, 1879, Rev. D. E. Yeiser, Pastor, and C. L. Nall, Treasurer, tendered their resignations, which were accepted. W. N. Mason was then elected Treasurer. Feb. 2S, 1S79, Rev. D. E. Yeiser was recalled as Pastor. July 26, 1879, Dr. J. S. Coleman was chosen to dedi- cate their new church building on the fifth Sabbath in August, which was done. At this time D. E. Yeiser again resigned. Dec. 2, 1879, Dr. J. S. Ce)lcman, the present Pastor, was elected. Jan. 1, iSS0, W. N. Ma-soii was elected Moderator, and George H. Cox, Clerk. In May, 1880, the church was admitted to member- ship in the General Association. Nov. 3, 1878, a Sunday-school was organized in Turpin's tobacco factory, with S. T. Lowry as Superintendent, and John Moorman, Secretary; there were about thirty pupils. In February, 188(1, George H. Cox was elected Superintendent, a position which he still fills. The church build- ing was commenced in December, 1878, and completed at a cost of about 5,O)0. Fourth Street Baptist Church (colored).-This society was organized many years ago, when records were not very sacredly kept. They worshiped at first in a log building which stood almost directly in a ravine, since filled up, just below where St. Stephen's Church now stands. Isomn Howard was their minister for many years. The present church building, a brick, between Elm and Poplar streets, was built before the war; seating capacity, 500 or more. Since it was first built, twenty feet addition has been made to the rear or north end. It is now eighty feet long by forty wide. As pastors of this church, Mr. Howard has been succeeded by Revs. DuPuy, Caldwell, Edward Newsomn and Moses Harding, the present incutnbent, who has been here nearly seven years. There are now about 500 members. There have been over 600, but a few years ago a new church was formed from it, who have their head- quarters in the eastern part of the city. The Sunday-school has an average attendance of 80 to 100. Nelson Talbutt is the present Superintendent. The principal revivals have occurred under the ministrations 376 of Rev. Newsozn, who added over 100 to the church, and Rev. Norris, from Henderson, who conducted a revival here resulting also in the addition of over 100 to the church. Mr. Harding has added about 300 to this church. Center Street Baptist Chitre1o (eolored).-This has also been called "Snow Hill Baptist Church;" the name does not yet seem to be settled. It is comparatively young and weak. A frame church has been commenced on Snow Hill, probably 34 x 50 feet in dimen- sions, but when the frame was up and roof and siding on work ceased. The society holds regular religious services, however. Rev. A. Merrifield has been pastor here. Rev. Salter is the present minister. The fall of 1S78 was marked by one of the greatest revivals ever witnessed in this community. It commenced in Tarpin's factory and ended ih the VAirst Baptist Church, by the conversion of over 250 persons, and the addition of over 200 to the church. Dr. J. S. Coleman was the principal minister, assisted by Revs. J. M. and R. D. Peay and D. K. Yeiser. May 20, 1880, a general conference of the Baptist ministers of Kentucky was held at the First Baptist Church. The Green River Baptist T/weoloqjca Inaqtlt ation.--March 27, 1867, this society held its first meeting in Owensboro, commencing on Wednesday and closingits labors on Sunday night. The attend- ance was large and appreciative, and the lectures delivered by the gentlemen appointed for that purpose were in the highest degree in- teresting and instructive. Rev. J. M. Dawson spoke on Regenera- tion, Repentance and Faith; Rev. J. S. Coleman, on Personality, Divinity, and Work of the Holy Spirit; Mr. J. H. Branham, on Ac- tion. Design and Symbolism of Baptism; Rev. J. C. Maple, on Church Government; Rev. J. M. Peay, on Commutnion. Rev. J. S. Coleman, of Beaver Diam, was elected P'resident, and Rev. J. C. Maple, of Owensboro, Secretary. Christian Chuusic.--This society was organized in 1860, in the old Masonic lodge-room, with about fifty members, under Rev. A. N. Gilbert, who resided and l)reaclled here about six mouths, when the war came in and interrupted the pastoral succession. About two months after organization they rented an old theater hall for some three years, when it had to be given up for a court-room, the court-house being burned. The present ehureth building of brick, and of a seating capacity of about 500, was erected in 1870-'71. It is on Lewis street, between Fourth and Fifth. Among the first 377 OWENSBORO. HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. inemnbers were B. A. Wilhoyt and wife, Mrs. Rebecca Brotherton, Mrs. Elizabeth Coffey, Win. Littell, James W. MlcDonald, Mr. Pruitt, A. (4. Botts, Allen Wilhoyt, etc. The first Elder was Mr. Botts, and Deacons, B. A. Wilhoyt and Win. Littell. The pres- ent officers, 1enryr Tompkins, Joshula (J-. Teriill and J. W. Me- Donald, Elders, and Win. Hays, Deacon. Sunday-school at 9:30 A. Ar.; Prof. A C. Goodwin, Supt. The i)astors of this church lhave been : Revs. A. N. Gilbert, Geo. Taylor. who was here for over two years after the war; W. W. Carter, two years; Alfred N. Flower, two years; 1. 0. Flower. son of the preceding, six months; Baxter Mayfielcd, a year; A. N. Gilbert again, six months; and niow. Re\. I. G. Tomlinson, from Indianapolis, although not employed for a fixcd1 term, is preaching lor this society. Ic llas been a i-ssioniar in Jalanl seveeral years. Fir-st e' e-s'yter ia C/i careh. --The presb tery of Lu)uisvi le. at a mneeting held at Shelbyville in 1844, appointed a commnission to organze a clli- cb. at Oweusboro. In accordance with this decision a chnrch was organized in this city, Nov. 23,1S44, by Rev.Williani L. Brecke iiridge, of Louiiis ville. There were, at first, six mnembers, as fhflows,: -William IBell, John N. Dorsey, Mris. Marv Anderson. Mrs. Jane Wei', -Mrs. Barbara Ainthony and James B. Anderson. Ori the first f MAfarch, 1845, Jamnes B. Anderscn. William Bell and John V. lD)orsev were elected Ruling Elders. Subseqluently Mt-. Dor sev left tile city arid Messrs. Joh-n Allkn and Win. A. BIradshaw were clhosen Eldeers. For mnany p ars the session was chumuposed of these samlle foulr el(de's. Fromn AMInref, 1 843.. to Aplril, 184(. thle church was supplied by Rev. J E. Sm-nith, of the presbvtery of Donegal, who went from here to Bardstown. In September. 1846, Rev. II. II. Hllpkins was called to thre church tromn Shlelby County, Ky. He aecel.tc(l the call, andl was installed in Jauuimam', 184T, by Rev. ID. P. Ifun- phrey, now ot Louisville. aud B. M. Ilobison. The church at first worslhiped in the old court-house, which was a rude structure, with saw-dust floor, and rough planks for seats. TILe congit'egatiovi speedily begani to raise fands for the erection of a suitable edifice. In spite of miany difficulties the building was complete(d early in 1850, and is the same as the one at present in use, on Ttir'd str eet. It was formnally dedicated to the worshii) of the Lord, Mlay 12. 1iSSO(-, by Rev. Mr. Hopkins, the pastor. Tlme building is 40 x 60, ot brick, and will seat 350 people. In June, 1845, a meetinog was conducted by Rev. Mr. Gray, of 378 Henderson, by which a number of members were added to the then small congregation, by profession of faith in Christ. During the extended period of Dr. Hopkins' ministry, the congregation grew in numbers steadily and gradually. It was marked by one revival season of inore than usual success, extending through April and part of May, 1S58, at which time many valuable accessions were made to the church fromi the outer world. Dr. H-hopkins, in his pastorate, took great pains to inculcate in his followers the principles of true morality and Cbriktianity. and the moral tone of his congregation was consequently elevated. His disciplinary belief and teachings were considered rather strict, but his long pastorate of nearly twenty-tlree years is the best possible evidence of the esteeml in which hle was lmc'd as a minister of the gospel. He was beloved by all, both those in his church an(l the citizens generally. The painful events in- the history ., this country fromn 1861 to 1865, leading to a division in the Pres- byterian Synod of Kentucky, made it evident that the church would be divided. There were at this time onl the roll about 126 members, of whom about eight y'and all the elders, ad all the (leacons save one, went to the Southern Assembly, and were organ- ized as the Fourth Street Presbyterian Churchl. The property of the church was divided, those ad herinng to the Nortlhern Assemnbly retaining the church and namn(e of " First Presb'vterihn Church." The church secured the services ot l'lev. Jointn K. Demare 4, ot Palisades, N. Y., as their regtllal paastor, and lie remained witl the co-n."regation until the spring ot 18I72, whLe1 he resignled, to accept a call to New York City. I-le is at present preaching at Gettysburg, Pa. The church here l)rosperedl steadily under NJr. Demarest, and parted with him with regret. I-e was followed, in the succeeding Decemnber, by Rev. J. F. fendy, whlio camie fron Vincennes, Ind., and remained with the elLurch unmtil A.pril 1, 1881. Dec. 1 Rev. J. H-I. Nesbitt, from the Pittsburg Presbvterv, was called and took charge of the congregation, which position1 hle flow holds. Rev. J. Nesbeitt, now in clharge of the First Presbyterian Church of Owvensboro, was born in Indiana, County, Pa., Aug. 20. 1834. [le received his preparatory literary and classical edu- cation in Saltzburg Academy, in the same county, after which lie entered Jefferson College, and graduated with the class of 1858. He studied theology one year in the Theological Seminary in Allegheny City, Pa., and two years in the Theological Seminary 379 OWENSBORO. 8 1STORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. in Chicago, Ill. He was licensed to preach, by the presbytery of Chicago, in April, 1860, and ordained to the full work of the gos- pel ministry by the same presbytery in October, 1861. The first nine years of his ministry were spent in Illinois. most of the time as pastor of the Presbyterian church of Macomb. In October, 1869, he received and accepted a call to become pastor of the Presbyterian church, at Franktort, Ky., where he remained until the summer of 1876, when ill health compelled him to resign, and return to his native State. After a year of rest, he became pastor of Mingo church, in the presbytery of Pittsburg, Pa., from which place he caine to Owensboro. Dec. 1. 1881. Mr. Nesbitt married Miss Agnes Ranken Ross, of RE[ockford, ll., May 25, 1864. Foukrth Stheet Peesbyterian Ghnrolh.-In the foregoing history of the First Church, we have mentioned the division of its congre- gation, and the organization of the Fourth Street Presbyterian Church, in 1868. The members of this church at once took steps toward erecting a church edifice, which was dedicated April 14, 1870, b- Rev. -1. 1-. Hopkins. Previously to this, in June, 1869, Rev. J. W. Puglh, of Warrenton, Va., was called to the pulpit of this church. He was installed by Dr. Stuart Robinson, Dr. H. HI. H1opkinis, and Rev. F. Thornton, and began his labors Oct. 28, 1869. Charles B. Hicks was elected and ordained an Elder, in November, 1871. Wm. H. Clark was elected and ordained an Elder in November, 1869. Messrs. Bradshaw, Metcalf; Hicks and Clark for a time constituted the session. Afterward Mr. G. Crutcher, Mr. John Wandling, and C. R. Milne were chosen as Elders. Owing to various changes, the session now consists of Messrs. John Wandling, C. R. Milne, and W. H. Clark. Dr. Hopkins, on account of declining health, was obliged to cease preaching, and accordingly, in October, 1869, the pastoral relation was severed by the presbytery of Louisville, at the re- quest of Dr. Hopkins, and Rev. Mr. Pugh was calied to the pulpit, as above stated. He continue] as pastor of the church until March 8, 1877, and his labors were marked by several seasons of successful revivals. At the time he left. the church roll had risen to 135. During his pastorate the congregation purchased a com- fortable parsonage, which he occupied during the latter part of his stay in Owensboro. He went from here to act as pastor of the church at Frankfort, Ky. Rev. J. C. Molloy was called to the pulpit of this church April 22, 1877, and was ordained on the call 380) of the Owenisboro church in the fall of the same year. Ile was installed Dec. 12, 1877, Rev. Stuart Robinson, D. D., preaching and charging the pastor, whilst Rev. W. L. Nourse delivered the charge to the members. Mr. Molloy was born in Iolly Springs, Miss., Nov. 23, 185. His father was at that time banking in Maemnphis, Tena., and shortly after he moved his famnily there. 'Mr. Molloy was brought up in Memphis, attending a private school most of the time until the age of seventeen, when he entered the junior class at Stuart College, Clairksville, Tenn. Hle was intended by his father for a lawyer, but chose the ministry in preference, and his father conI sented. le graduated at Clarksville in June, 1874, and in August of the same year entered the junior class of Union Theological Seminary at Hamupden Sidney, Va., gradnatinig in the spring of 1877. During his course he supplied two country churches in Prince Edwards County, Va. On his vacation of 1876, he raised 10,000 of the endowment fund of Bellwood Seminary, at Anchor age, Ky. Mr. Molloy has been twice married, the last tinme to Miss Laura Browi, of Shelby County, Ky. During his ministry in Owensboro two revivals of unusual suc- cCss have been held, and the membership, in spite of numerous losses by removal, is now 167. In October, 1881, work was begun on the nlew church edifice, which is now under roof It will seat 400 persons, and has two ante-rooms and two offlices. It will cost before completion over 15,000, and it is one of the finest build- ings in this part of the State. The architecture of the church is very modern in style, and is modeled after the English Gotlic. The Sunday-school connected with the church is in a very pros- perous condition, with a membership of 130. The Superintendent is Win. IH. Clark. Oct. 11, 1877, the Presbyterian Synod of Kentucky, in connec- tion with the General Assembly of that clhnireh in the United States, met at the First Presbyterian Church in Owensboro. The opening discourse was delivered by Jonathan Edwards, D. D., of D)anville. Rev. H. IT. Allen delivered a remarkably effective address on ministerial education. Several other able discourses were delivered, but the time of the synod was mostly taken up with routine business. The attendance was not large, apparently owing to the fact that this city is so far from the geographical center of the State, and was comparatively inaccessible by railroad. April 11 and 12, 1882, the Louisville Presbytery met in Owensboro. 381 OWENSBORO. HISTORY OF DAVlESS COUNTY. T1ae Cumerland IPesbyter an Citureh was organized the fall of 1839 by Rev. Samuel Calhoon, Alfred Grissom and wife, Mrs. Pililip Triplett, James M. Rogers and wife, David Morton arnd wifte, Joseph Weaver and wife, George Newbolt and wife, Mrs. W. WV. Chambers, Rev. Samuel Calhoon and wife, Miss E. Griffith, W. R. Ewing, and wife, sand many others were the first members. Alfred Grissom, James M. Rogers, David Morton, and Joseph Weaver were Elders and Trustees. The first religious services were held at the court-house, an-l the old seminary, now a part of tfle Upper Ward school building. Rev. Saimutel Calhoon was the first preacher, and the only one fbr three or four years, but was never elected as regular plstor-. Rev. Hiram A. Hunter, who is now living in Louisville, was the first regularly elected pastor and served about eight years; R ev. George D. McLean, one year; Rev. C. 11. D. Harris, one year; Rev. Jesse Anderson, now of Winclhes- ter, Ky., ten years; Rev. J. W. Poindexter, foulr years; Rev. William Wilson, one year; Rev. W. H. Steel, one year; Rev. W. TEI. Berry, one year; Rev. 0. C. ITawkins, tlhree years; Rev. B. D. Cockrill. the presengt p tstor, was elected the first of November, 1880. III 184S a great r viv4d was held by Rev. Geor4ge ). MeLean. also iii 18(68. by lRev. Jesse Anderson), assisted by Rev. J. W. Poindexter; and in Marcli. I 882-. bv Rev. R. G. Pearson. the "1 boy preacher" from. Nasl vil le, T'enn., at which time there were over 200 professions. and about sixty-five additions to the congregation. The house of worship was built in 184-0, at a cost of about 3,500; size. 75 x 38 feet. Tlie present officers are: Rev. B. D. Coekrill, Pastor; Williarm Shelby. S. R.. Ewing, A. A. C. Simmons, S. W. Long, John G. I)elker, B. Brantforcl, Ellers; and F. T. Gunther, W. F. Reinhliardt, J. W. Marks, and James Murphy-, Deacons. The congregition niumbers 350. Tle chiurch is entirely riee from dlebt, and is in a very prosperous coniditioni. In 1850 a Sunday-school was crganized, with Geeorge Scarborough as SUpei'intendclet. The present officers are: T. J. Clarke, Superintendent; A. C. Tomp- kins, Assistant Superintendent; F. T. Gutnther, Treasurer; Miss Virgie Payne, Librarian and Secretary; Miss Edna Gates, Assis- tant. There are 180 members enrolled, wvith ani average attend- ance of about 130. In March, 1882, a great union revival, principally in the Cumn- berland Presbyterian and Methodist chturcles, resulted in 207 con- 382 OW ENSBOR3O. versions. The series of meetings was abruptly terminated by the illness of the revivalist, Rev. Mr. Pearson. Oct. 24-28, 1872, the Green River Synod of the Cumberland Prcsbyterian Church was held in Owensboro. The synod conI prised seven presbyteries, eighty ordained ministers, over 100 churelhes, and a lay membership of over 15,000. The session here was renmarlkaldy harmonious and fruitful of good results. At this meetimn, the Ohio Presbytery was divided into two, and important measures were adopted relative to the Greenville Female Institute. Met/lod;st Elpiscopal.-The beginnings of Methodism are now so far in the past that but few living residents know much about them. Among the earliest Methodist preachers here were Richard Neal, a Presiding Elder, one of the Downses, John andDaniel T. Pinkston, and Philip Gauin, also a Presiding Elder. The latter was once struck by lightning,which ruielted all the metallic articles of one side of him and tore his clothes somewhat, without injuring him in the least! It is said that the first Methodist society in Owensboro was formeed about 1840. Their meetins were held in the court-house until 1819, when their first church was built, which is now 1. L. Duncan Sons' store, on the north side of Main street. It was erected by J. J. Bowlds, a blacksmith, almost entirely at his own expense. It was used until 1880, when it was sold to Mr. Duncan for 2,000. Its size was forty-eight or fifty feet by seventy-eight, besides a vestibule, which was added sometime subsequent to its first erection. In 1879, Rev. H. C. Settle moved the church toward erecting a commodious house of worship. A building committee, consisting of Dr. W. D. Stirman, T. HI. Frayser and R. McJohnston, was ap- pointed. The old church and grounds on Second street were sold for 3,000, and the present site, on the corner of Fourth and Daviess streets, was purchased for 2,550. The plan submitted by Boyd Brickly, of Evansville, was adopted, and the house was immediately put up, under the superintendence of Captain J. J. Williams. The building is 54 x 90, and fifty feet high, with slate roofings Gothic finish, etc. Internally the house is beautifully finished. It was dedicated March 20,1881, by Rev. Dr. Fitzgerald, of Nashville. Total cost of the structure, 13,900-surprisingly small. Cost of lot, 2,500. Location, near the crossing of Fourth and Da- viess streets. 383 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. The ministers since 1848 have been: Richard Holding, S. S. Deering, T. J. Moore, A. -1i. Redfield, Hancock and Nathaniel H. Lee, Frank M. English, James I. Ferree, Mr. Kyle, N. H. Lee, again, A. A. Morrison (now in Denver, Col.), Dr. Win. R. Babcock (now in St. Louis, Mo.), R. Y. Thomas (now in Greenville, Ky.), J. J. Randolph (deceased), R. R. R. Alexander (who afterward died ii Louisiana), David Morton, W. Al. Ford, John W. Cunningham (now of the St. Louis Conference), W. M. Ford, again, I-I. C. Settle, Joseph B. Cottrell, 1I. C. Settle, again, George H. Hayes and S. R. Brewer, the present pastor. In 1850 there were thirty-five or forty members--only ten of them male; now there are about 360 members. Sunday-school at 9 A. M., with an average attendance of 110, and twenty-two teachers. T. 11. Frayser, Superintendent. Thihrd Street Colored (or African) Method'st Episcopal Church. -This church was organized many years ago, by Rev. Dunahy, with twenty-five or thirty members. Met for worship in Megill's Hall. The pastors since then have been Revs. Yocum, Frost, 0. B. Ross, Ferguson, Sherman, and the present one is Rev. Taylor. The membership has increased to 119, and is in a prosperous con- dition. Class-leaders: Dora Henderson and Mr. Humphrey. The church building was erected in 1873; size, 60 x 30 feet; cost, 16,000; location, near the corner of Third and St. Elizabeth streets. Trinity Cshurch (I'rotestan t Episcopal).-This church was organ- ized a little over a quarter of a century ago, with about a dozen members. The inemlership has increased to thirty-three; and there is a Sunday-school of about twenty children, superintended by the pastor, assisted by Mlr. Latimore. The Rectors which have served this church are: Revs. J. A. Jackson, Bird, Pate, Hubbard, La- trobe, Gibson, Powers, Hall, Claiborne, and the present, Geo. C. Sutton, from Richmond, Va., but a native of En(gland. Church. services were at first held in Masonic Hall, on Fourth street, then in the second story of Dr. Megill's store building. The church next purchased a carpenter shop, with lot, on Frederica street, between Fifth and Sixth, fitted it up neatly and. had relig ions services there six or seven years. They then sold this property and invested the proceeds in a very eligible lot of ground on the north side of Fifth street, between St. Elizabeth and Locust streets, whereon, in51874-'75, they erected the most tasteful church building in the city. It is 60 x85 feet in dimensions and has a seating 384 OWENSBORO. 385 capacity of nearly 600. A fine parsonage is located on the lot adjoining west, free from debt. A small debt on the church property still remains. This little society hashad many a struggle, but it has manfully kept up. Present Vestrymen: C. H. Todd, Henry Megill, Daniel M. Griffith, P. T. Watkins, Joseph Slaughter and Robert Dunlop. Evangelical Ckurch.-This church was organized about twelve or fifteen years ago by Rev. G(. Schoettle, with probably twelve or fifteen families. Air. S. went to Ohio in 1S77. The pastors since that time have been Revs. Valentine Zinier, in 1878, who left here for Indiana; Edward Schweitzer, 1879-'81, who also went to In- diana; and the present one, II. F. Deters, who has had the position since September; 1881. The church edifice, about 30 x 40, was erected in 1878. Thi-re are now about thirty families in this church, and a Sunday-school of about eighty pupils, presided over by the pastor. The church is in a prosperous condition. Rev. H. F. Deters was born in Allamakee County, Iowa, in 1856, the son of Henry and Mary (Buchholz) Deters; graduated at Elmhurst Seminary, Du Page County, Ill., and in theology at Mathiasville, Mo., in 1881. In 1882 he married Miss Langpaap, a native also of Allamakee County, Iowa. Besides holding his present ministerial position, he is also the teacher of German for the public schools of Owensboro, atd a member of the Evangelical Synod of America. Temple Adath Israel (febrew).-The congregation was organ- ized probably two or three years before the war, with about eighteen families; there are now thirty-one. Tile Rabbis have been: Drs. Rosenfeld, Marcosson, Strauss, J. H. Goldhamner, Abraham Myer, Alexander Rosenspitz, and the present incuM bent, J. Glueck, who has been here since February, 1881, and is just engaged for another year. The first religious services were held in the second story of Mr. Moise's store, on East Second street, and afterward in Prof. Hart's school building, two years. The temple, with a seating capacity of about 200, was built in 1878; is a neat, brick structure, located on Lewis street, between Fourth and Fifth,' and cost 4,000. The present Board of Trus- tees comprises Joe Rothschild, President; Sol. Wile, V. P.; E. L. Moss, Secretary; M. Levy, Treasurer; A. Reese, J. Wittelshofer, and L. Loeser. 25 386 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUN'TY. This church has both a Sabbath-school and a Sunday-school- the former meeting 10 to 11 A. M., and the latter 10 to 11:30 A. m. About forty-six ahildren are enrolled, of whom Dr. Glueck is the general instructor. Religious services in the temple are held every Friday evening, and Saturday morning at 9 A. M. The singing is led by a well- drilled choir of ladies; Mrs. Hartzfeld, Chorister. CHAPTER XVII. OWENSBORO, CONTINUED. BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES. Young Meln's Chri8tian A88oeiat;on.-Tlie first ineeting look- iixg toward the organization of the Young Men's Christian Asso- ciation in Owensboro, was called at the instance of Mr. J. F. Huber, of Louisville, State Secretary of the society. It was held in the Cumberland Presbyterian church, Nov. 1, 1877. At this meet- ing a committee was appointed to solicit funds, and to report at a meeting held the following evening in the same place. At this meeting a permanent organization was effected. The follow- ing officers were elected: Benj. Bransford, President, and E. G. Buckner, Secretary. The members enrolled at this meeting were: Benj. Bransford, J. F. IHendy, E. G. Buckner, A. M. C. Simmons, G. W. Towner, J. C. Molloy, 0. C. Hawkins, James F. Huber, Robert Brodie and Walter A. Nichols. Meetings were held in the different churches until the society could procure suitable rooms. Their first permanent location was in a room over Higgins's drug store, where they remained one year, removing to Masonic Tenmple. over the National Bank. Here they met regularly for two years, after which they rented and fitted up their present spacious and pleasant rooms on Freder- ica street, between Third and Fourth streets. The reading-room and library is situated on the first or ground floor, is nicely fitted up for the comfort and convenience of members and visitors, and is open all day and until nine o'clock every evening. The library comprises about 700 volumnes, with the addition of leading daily and weekly journals which are kept on file. The room for devotional exercises, lectures, etc., is situated in the rear of the reading-room. It is furnished with an organ and comfortable chairs. The second floor is used for a ladies' parlor, gymnasium and bath-rooma. All the conveniencies of the association are free for the use ot tl.e public. Members pay an annual fee of 5, which is used in the support of the institution. The principal source of revenue, however, is (387) HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. from subscriptions. The people of Owensboro have been liberal in their support of the association, 1,600 having been raised in 1881, and about 900 in 1882. in 1881 Dr. Tyler was engaged as Secretarv on a salary of 700 a year, devoting his entire time to the duties of the office. During tile first three months of 1882 the secretary waspaid a salary, since which time the office has been an honorary one. The funds raised have been applied toward paying these salaries,- fitting and furnishing the hall, purchasingr books for the library, and in furnishing relief to the needv. Reg- tilar business meetings are held monthly devotional exercises every Sunday evening. Besides these the association holds gospel meetings in the jail, and at different places in the suburbs of the city. There are now connected with the organization forty active and fifty-six associate members. Active members must be members in good standing of' some evangelical church. The following are the officers for 1833: Jas. H. Parrish, President; E. G. Buckner, Vice-President; J. N. Courtney, Treasurer; W. A. Hester, Record. ing Secretary. Board of Directors-Robert Brodie, Prof. A. C. Goodwin, J. D. Kennady, W. F. Reinhardt, Prof. W. A. Hester, W. B. Armnendt. Nov. 7-10, 1878, the first State Convention of the Young Men's Christian Association was held in the Third Street Presbyterian Church in this city. Addresses of welcome were delivered by Rev. J. C. Molloy, James Weir and Rev. J. F. Hendy. It was the ooccasion of great interest to the people of this vicinity. St. Vincent de Pawl Society is a benevolent institution, con- ducted under the auspices of the Catholic church. It was organ- ized in 1880. Its objects are to furnish provisions, fuel, etc., to the poor. It is in active operation during the winter months only, regular meetings being held every Sunday. The place of meeting is St. Stephen's Church. The society was started with aboutforty members. M. V. Monarch was the first President; Chas. C. Thix- ton, Secretary, and R. W. Slack, Treasurer. The offices are per- petual, or are relinquished only on the removal or death of the incumbent. The funds expended for relief are raised by private subscription among the members, and by the contributors through a mite box in the church vestibule. Only gentlemen are admitted to membership. It is not a secret organization. Die St. Hubertus Benevolent Society was organized Sept. 17, 1874, with a membership of twenty-seven. It is a German Cath- 388 OWENSBORO. olic society, being connected with St. Joseph's Church in Owens- boro. Francis Kornuf and Henrv Rose were most active in starting the society, whose purpose3 are benevolence and care of the sick. The first officers were as follows: Henry Rose, President; Anthony Eger, Vice-President; Michael Dittmnan, Secretary; Paul Tennes, Treasurer; F. Kotnuf, J. Gilles, N. Michel, J. Vollman, William Emler, A. Rose and Al. Breitenbach, Trustees. The society was duly incorporated under the laws ot Kentucky, Feb. 17, 1S75. The membership has increased steadily since the organization, and in spite of numerous los3es by death and removal, is now forty- five. The present officers, chosen OAt. 12, 1882, are as follows: Mat. Meyer, President; Jacob Meise, Vice-President; Michael Dittmnan, Secretary; Michael Schaefer, Corresponding Secretary; Conrad Baum(gartner, Treasurer; 11enry Meise, Marshal; Sebas- tian Weikel, Flag-bearer; Frank Komnuf, William Emler, Michael Dittman, Henry Ross and George Schaefer, Trnstees. The regular meetings are held the second Suinday of each month. at St. Joseph's school-house. The society celebrates its anniversary usually by a picnic or somne other entertainment. It has been prosperous since its organization and has bright prospects. Con- nected with the society is an insurance scheme, divided into two classes-first class, 500; second class, 1,000. The fees are varied according to the age of the applicant, being 2.50 ior a person of twenty-five years, and rising to 10.00 for one between fift'N and sixty. There have been no assessments under this plan, as it was only adopted Oct. 12, 1882, since which time there have leon no deaths. This life insurance is entirely controlled by the -Benevolent Society and is managed by the same officers, wV-ho ai e elected yearly. Branch No. 18, Oatholic Ki;qlds of Amnorca, was organized Aug. 21, 1878, with sixteen charter inembers, as follows: Rev. D. F. Crane, Patrick Owen, John D. Scott, Luther F. Cox. Michael Dittman, William Emnler, William Pottinger, Jamnes S. Pottinger, Jacob Bolliman, J. T. Higgins. P. E. Payn e, Rev. Peter J. Haisley, C. Baumgartner. Joseph Rose, R. B. Pottiiiger. and R. W. Slack. The first officers of the branch were as follows: John B. Scott, President; Joseph Rose, Vice-President; William Pot- tinger, Recording Secretary; J. T. Higgins, Financial Secretary; James S. Pottinger, Treasurer; P. E. Payne, S. F. Cox, and Win. Emler, Trustees; Patrick Owen, Sergeant-at-Arms. The object of the order is insurance, the amount of endowment being 1,000 389 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. or 2,000. The office of President has been held successively by John B. Scott, R. W. Slack, and John B. Scott. The present offi- cers are as follows: Jolh B. Scott, President; A. Basehart, Vice- President; R. W. Slack. Recording Secretary; J. T. Higgins, Financial Secretniry; A. Eger, Treasurer; Joseplh Rose, Sergeant- at-Arms Patrick Owen, Sentinel; George Schaeter, A. Eger, and J. C. Rudd, Trustees. The present membership of the branch is about seventy, and the or-ia'iization is in a prospierous condition, financially and otherwise. One endowmnent of 2,000 hias been paid to John W. iigginzi. The branch meets the first and third Sundays of each moitli, at their hall on the north side it Court Squwro. Asher -Lodge. No. 227. 1 0. B.- B.. is a Hebrew benevolent institution, connected witim wviceh is aii eidowm-vent plan. paying, on thle deatli of anmy inhmler in good standing. 1,000 to 11's bene- ficiaries. Thev also pir sick benefits, and an assessrent to)ward the mnaint nance of a district (orp)lhan asvlnni. Lodge No. 227 was organized Oct. 25, 1874, with twenty members. The first officers were: Jos. RotlhchLld. Sr., Presilent; M. Moise, Vice-President; Ernest Weill, Secretary; B. Baer. Treasinrer; Sol. Wile, Monitor; A. Rosentdeld. Assistant Monit ir; L. Lesser, Guardian; M. Levy, Warden. Regu'ar meetings are held the second and fourth Sun days in eaclh mionti, intlie room over tle Jewisl Temp!e. Thelodge is in a flourishing condition, having over 500 ifi the treasury and a memb rship of twetity-eight. Its officers are: S. Moise, Presi- dent; J. M. Oppenheiner, Secretary; B. Bae,. Treasurer. An annual assessment of 15 is made upon each member, to pay run- ning expenses, sick bh !etits, endoxments, etc. They are within the jurisdietion of District No. 2, comprising the States of Ohio, Indiana, Ke tucky, Mi-souri, Kansas, Nebraska and Colorado. The headlquarters of the district is at Cincinnati. Tlhev hive a surplus fnlld o 112,000, which is drawn up'n to pay benefits or endowmentn for any lodge in the district whose per capita assess- ment 4f 15 dies not cover the amount required. The order origii ated ini 1846 or 1847, and has become one of the strongest and mnnst popildar benevolent institutions in the country. 1'he Uiion Benevolent Society, No. 2, was organized in the winter of 1876-'7, witlh a membership of about twenty-five. Time first President was H. C. Helm, and the first Secretary was A. Berry. The society is not a secret one, and its objects are benev- olence and sociability. Colored people between the ages of twelve 39( OWENSBORO. and forty-five are eligible to membership. The organization has prospered steadily in its membership, gradually increasing from twenty-five to nearly 400. The present officers are as follows: Mr. Pickrum, President; Robert Cruimp, Secretary; Thomas Crump, Treasurer. The society meets at the public school-house ill Owens- boro, the second and fourth Mondays of each month. Occasional entertainments have been given by the society since its organiza- tion. The Zadies' le7rewv Benevolent Society in Owensboro was established in 1869. It was organized by the ladies of the Jewish church. Its mission is to furnish relief to the poor of their church, and others. The fund for this purpose is obtained by an assess- ment of annual dues upon the members of the society. Mrs. A. Rosenfeld was the first President; Mrs. J. A. Godshaw (now deceased), the first Secretary, and Mrs. T. Moise, Treasurer. The officers for 1882 were Mrs. B. Baer, President; Mrs. A. Rosenfeld, Secretary; Mrs. T. Moise, Treasurer. Regular meetings are held quarterly. The present memnbership is twenty-one. None but ladies are admitted to mnembershi). The society, though not a chartered one, is orne of the fixtures of the place, and has done a great deal to alleviate suffering among the needy, and its influence for good has been felt in manv ways bv the members of their con- gregation. Stephen F. Oyden Lodye, No. 356, A. F. A. M., was char- tered Oct. 13, 1858, by the Grand Lodge of Kentucky. The charter is signed by Philip Swigert, Grand Master; Robert Morris, Deputy Grand Master; H. F. Wilson, Senior Grand Warden, and J. M. S. McCorkle, Grand Secretary, and the instrument is dated at Lexington. The lodge was named after Stephen F. Ogden, a prominent Mason, father of Dr. John D. Ogden. He had filled all the offices in the lodge and chapter (there was then no com- mandery ill this section of the country), at the time of his death. The charter members of Ogden Lodge numbered fourteen. The first Master of the lodge was William Bell, and the first Senior Warden was Henry Hart. The membership rapidly increased, and numbered about thirty at the opening of the war. At this time many of the members went into the army, and by 1866 there were but eight or ten members left. During that year the lodge was dissolved by the Grand Lodge, and all the books and papers were surrendered. No steps were taken toward reorganization until Oct. 24, 1872, when, under an order from the Grand Lodge, their charter was 891 3HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. returned, the old number returned, and the members instructed to meet for reorganization. According to these instructions a meet- ing was held Dec. 30, 1872, and, as recommended by the Grand Lodge, John D. Ogden was elected W. M.; Wm. Sharpe, S. W., and Abraham F. Berryman, J. W. Their first regular meeting after reorganization w is held Jan. 11, 1873. The lodge meets the fourth Monday in each month, in Masonic Temple. The present officers are: John D. Ogden, W. M.; James A. Willhite, S. W.; and Frank T. Gunther, J. W. It numbers thirty members, and is in a healthy condition. Owen sboro Lodge, No. 130, A. F. A. M., is the oldest existing lodge in the county, and the second one established within its limits. When organized there had been no lodge in the county for a period of nine years, its only predecessor, Woodson Lodge, No. 92, having forfeited its charter in 1834. A number of those who were instrumental in starting this institution had been members of the old Woodson Lodge. They first commenced under a dispensa- tion from the Grand Lodge, April 10, 1843, in the court-house in Owensboro. They were not chartered until Ang. 29 of the same year. Their first officers under the charter were as follows: Hiram A. Hunter, W. M.; William C. Norris, S. W.; Adam Sinp- son, J. W.; James L. Johnson, Secretary; S. S. Heath, Treasurer. The charter is signed by L. M. Cox, G. M.; B. R. Young,, D. G. M.; T. Halloway, S. G. W.; M. B. Allen, J. G. W. The lodge met in the codrt-house until the erection, in about 1850, of a hall at the corner of Fourth and St. Elizabeth streets, which was stib- sequently sold and is now used as a private residence. Their next place of meeting was in Court Hall, now used by the Odd Fellows. They remained in this building until the formation of a stock- company for building a Masonic Temple, of which they becamne members, and in which they now hold their meetings on the fourth Monday in each month. This temple was built in 1872, in con- junction with the First National Bank. It comprises the third story of the building situated on the corner of Third and Frederica streets. The several Masonic organizations of the city united in forning the stock-company. The rooms are commodious and nicely furnished. The present membership of this lodge is fifty-one. The officers for 1882 were: B. E. W. Stout, W. M.; N. 0. Ford, S. W.; D. R. Gash, J. W.; R. W. Littell, Secretary; John Wand- ling, Treasurer. 392 OWENBEORO. Jo Daveia8 Chapter, No. 32, was first organized under a special dispensation granted Jan. 17, 1848, by Willis Stuart, G. H. P. The first meeting was held Feb. 2, 1848. William A. Seaton, P. H. P., and William A. Barton, H. P., of Western Star Chapter, No. 20, of Hardinsburg, were the instituting officers. An election of officers at that meeting resulted in the selection of the following: Hiram A. Hunter, HI. P.; John Daveiss, K.; Jas. J. Bowlds, S.; John D. Ogden, C. H.; Philip Triplett, P. S.; Stephen F. Ogden, R. A. C.; R. G. Gardner, G. M. 3d V.; J. 11. McFarland, G. M. 2d V.; Win. C. Norris, G. Al. 1st V.; Stephen F. Ogden, Sec.; John H. McFarland, Treas.; Samuel Haynes, Tyler. The chap- ter was granted a charter Aug. 31, t848. The first meeting held under the charter convened Sept. 30, 1848, when an election was held, with the following result : Hiramn A. Hunter, II. P.; William W. 'Chambers, K.; Barnard Trible, S.; Benjamin H1. Ogden, C. H.; John J. Daveiss, P. S.; James D. Bowlds, R. A. C.; Joseph McCleary, G. Xl. 3d V.; John H. McFarland, G. At. 2d V.; William C. Norris, G. M. 1st V.; Stephen F. Ogden, Sec.; Philip Trip- lett, Treas.; John Daveiss, Chaplain; Wm. Y. Sharp, Marshal; E. Murray, S. and T. The chapter meets the first Monday in each month, at Masonic Temple. Owensboro Commanidery, No. 15, It. T., was organized April 15, 1872, with nine charter members, as follows : J. H. Branham, Eminent Commander; M. B. Swain, Generalissimo; R. Mf. Hatha- way, Captain-Gerieral; Rev. C. C. Chaplin, Prelate; John Wand- ling, Senior Warden; J. Q. A. Stewart, Junior Warden; Rev. John W. Pugh, Recorder; Salem H. Ford, Warder; Henry Megill, Cap- tain of the Guard. The offices after the several names are those to which the members were respectively elected at the organiza- tion. The office of Eminent Commander has been he]d by J. H. Branham, April, 1872, to August, 1873; R. M. Hathaway, August, 1873, to August, 1874; Salem IT. Ford, August, 1874, to April. 1875; John Wandling, April, 1875, to April, 1876; J. Q. A. Stewart, April, 1876, to April, 1878; John D. Ogden, April. 1878, to April, 1882; E. G. Buckner, April, 1882 (present incumbent). The present officers of the comimandery are as follows : E. G. Buckner, Eminent Commander; John Wandling, Generalissimo; J. J. Sweeney, Captailn-General; L. W. Marble, Prelate; F. J. Clarke, Senior Warden; F. D. Gunther, Junior Warden; P. T. Watkins, Treasurer; J. C. Wandling, Recorder; henry Megill, Standard-Bearer; J. S. Bottenweiser, Sword-Bearer; N. Mcintyre. 393 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Warden; W. N. Mason. Guard. The present membership of the Owensbor,) Commandery is thirty- four. The stated conclaves oc- cur regnlarly the third Monday of each month. Guiding Star Lodge, No. 14, A. -P. A. Al. (colored), was organized in 1879, with about ten members and the following officers: Thomas Tyler, W. M.; 0. K. Barrett, S. W.; Alfred Buckner, J. W; George Alexander, S. D.; Charles Jones, J. D.; Nestor McFarland, Chaplain; Phocion Fields, Secretary; William McFarland, Treasurer; Lewis R. Saulsbury, Tyler. There are now thirty-two members, with the following officers: Alfred BRck- nerM W. M.; George Alexander, S. W.; Elder McFarland, J. W.; Ph cian Fields, S. D.; Lewis Saulsbury, J. D.; Win. Jackson, Secretary; Win. Bailey, Treasurer. Place of meeting, over the Deposit Bank. Owenslboro Encampment, No. 45, 1. 0. 0. F, was instituted Juncm 18, 1870, with eleven members, as follows: George Brown, W. W. Chambers, WVoodson' Fletcher. P. HI. Brown, 0. S. Warner, J. G. Delker, J. Tir. Jones, John A. Brown, N. B. Allen, J. B. Al- exander, and J. W. Allen. The first officers chosen at the institu- tion of the encampment were as follows: George Brown, C. P.; O. S. Warner, H. P.; J. W. Allen, S. W.; N. B. Allen, J. W.; J. G. Delker, Scribe; W. W. Chimbers, Treasurer; J. B. Alexander, Guide; P. R. Brown, Sentinel. Although fourteen years elapsed between the dissolution of the Magnolia Encampment and the f rmation of Owensboro Encampment, several members of the former joined the latter. and some are still living. The present membership of the encampment is forty-six. No meetings were held from the latter part of 1880 until Nov. 24,- 1882, when the following officers were continued: B. Baer, C. P.; J. H. Fisher, H. P.; Godfrey Arnold, S. W.; Michael Carey, J. W.; R. W. Littell, Scribe; J. H. Fisher, Treasurer; R. Hickman, Guide; P. H. Brown, Sentinel. The regular meetings of the encampment are held every Friday evening, at Odd Fellows' Hall. iagnolia Encampment, No. 20, 1 0. 0. a., was organized about 1851, at the time Daveiss Lodge was flourishing. It kept up with a membership of ten to fifteen until December, 1866, when its charter was surrendered. from lack of interest in the work. Daveiss Lodge, -No. 61, I. 0. 0. Y'., was organized Aug. 29, 1849, with a membership of fifteen or twenty. The first Noble Grand was 0. S. Wilson; Vice-Grand, R. A. Bell; Treasurer, George W. Triplett; Secretary, F. W. Watkins. The lodge was 394 prosperous for a time, and was in existence over seven years. In December, 1856, its charter, as well as that of the encampment, was surrendered, being taken to the Grand Lodge at Louisville by James Littell. Lack of interest is the only reason that can be assigned for the death of the lodge, as there were twenty-five or thirty members. Brothers' Lodge No. 132. 1. 0. 0. F. was organized Aug. 28, 1856, by authority of a charter froin the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, dated July 18, 1866, with the tollowin r charter mem- bers: John J. Davis, James Littell, G. W. Triplett, R. G. Moormnan, E. S. Avres, WV. W. Clhambers, N. C. Leamnan, N. B. Allen, Eli Adams, George N. McKav and P. II. Browii. The first officers were as follows: N. B. Allen, N. G.; R. G. Moorman, V. G.; Jamees Littell, Treasurer; Johin J. Davis, Secretary; Eli Ad uls, Host; P. 11. Brown, I.G.; N. C. Leatna-i. R. S. N. G.; Thomas H. Pointer, L. S. N. G.; W. H. Lea!nan, It. S. V. G.; James A. Scott, R. S. S.; James GT. Thomason, L. S. S.; F. L. Hall, Conductor; E. S. Ayres. The lodge has steadily growu and prospered since its organization, and is now one of the strongest lodges in this part of the State. It owns half of the brick block known as II Court Row." The present membership in good standing is about 125. The present officers, chosen in July, 1882, are as follows: J. A. Wilhite, S. P. G.; R. W. Littell, N. G.; 11. A. Duncan, V. G.; J. W. Car- ter, Recording Secretary; W. G. Burnett, Permanent Secretary; W. W. Chlambers, Treasurer; William Mandel, Host and T. G.;-J. H. Fislier, R. S. to N. G.; E. R. Ford, L. S. to N. G.; E. Weill, R. S. to V. G.; J. 11. Axton, L. S. to V. G.; James Littell, War- den; Phil. R. Zulauf, Con luctor; R. R. Jickiin, R. S. S.; Wood- son Fletcher, L. S. S.; George Brown, District Deputy. Tile lodge meets every Friday night at its lodge room in Court Row. Giratnd United Lodge, Ao. 1,9S2, 1. 0. 0. F'. (colored). was organ- ized inl September, 1878, with about cighty members Richard VairiaTn, Noble Father; John Swain, Noble Grand; Charles Jack- son, Permanent Secretary. The place of meeting has been uni- formly at their lodge room over the Deposit Bank. The present membership numbers 100 or more, and the lodge in every re- spect is in a very flourishing condition. They have a 30 banner, and their regalia cost 300. Present officers: Jolhn Swain, Noble Father; Alfred Woods, Noble Grand; Samuel Curd, Vice Grand; Charles Henderson, Permanent Secretary; Robert Crump, E. S. 395 OWENSBORO . HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Star Lodge, No. 19, Knights of Pythias, was organized Aug. 29, 1872, by Vice Grand Chancellor James Canninglhain and seven members from Ivanhoe Lodge. No. 9, at Calhoon, McLean County. The charter members were eighteen in number, as tallows: D. A. Wilson, E. C. Davis, John W. Pugh, J. A. Fuqua, Ed. G. Buckner, John W. Mathews, Phil. R. Ziflauf, D. W. Lucas, Jos. Mathias. H. W. Miller, John J. Davis, Win. H. Woodford, John Q. A. Stewart, Phil. A. Pointer, Thomas S. Pettit, W. H. Ray, Jolhn A. Brown, R. W. Littell and N. N. Wells. The first officers were: D. A. Wilson, W. C.; Ed. C. Davis, W. V. C.; Rev. John W. Pugh, V. P.; J. A. Fuqna, R. S.; J. W. Murphy, F. S.; E. G. Buckner, Banker; Jos. Mathias, Guide; Phil. R. Zulauf; S. W. Lucas, O. S. The office C. C. (formerly W. C.) has been held successively by D. A. Wilson, E. G. B uckner, Phil. R. Zulanf. E. C. Davis, W. H. Owen, John W. Pugh, C. I. Todd, J. W. Carter, J. Q. A. Stewart, J. G. Owen, W. H-. Owen, H. W. Miller, Charles Haney, J. D. Hayes, J. D. Powers, J. J. Sweeney, E. P. Taylor, C. K. Lehr- berg, W. T. Ellis, W. M. Fisher. The lodge has furnished to the Grand Lodge four officers: J. D. Powers, P. G.C.; Phil. R. Ztlauf, G. P.; J. W. Carter, G. 1. G.; E. G. Buckner, G. 0. G. The Grand Lodge met at Owensboro in October, 1882, and were enter- tained royally by Star Lodge, at a cost of over 2,000. The city was gaylv decorated with flags, and a grand banquet was given the Grand Lodge Oct. 11. The present officers of Star Lodge are as follows: W. T. Ellis, P. C.; W. M. Fisher, C. C.; George Cox, V. C.; J. Z. Moore, P.; Jaines Moorman, M. of E.; W. G. Bur- nett, M. of F.; 11. F. 11ager, K. of R. and S.; George Dotnaldson, M. at A.; Irvin Haney, I. G.; J. C. Grady, 0. G. The lodge is in excellent condition, financially and otherwise, having over 100 meml)ers in good standing. It meets every Tuesday evening at Masonic Hall. Section, No. 188, LEndowment Rank, Knights of Pythias, was organized by virtue of a charter, dated May 16. 1878, wvith a miem- bership of abont thirty. The first officers were: J. W. Carter, President; J. A. Brown, Secretary and Treasurer. The present officers are: W. I-I. Owen. President; C. K. Lehrberg, Secretary and Treasurer. This organization pays endowments of 1.000, 2,000 or 3,000, as the member -prefers. 'Owensbloro C9ouncil, No. 34, was chartered Nov. 14, 1860. The applicants for a charter were J. G. Griffin, Henry Mcgill, HI. P. Hart, J. J. Daveiss, J. Ijelahunt, Louis Weber, C. N. S. Taylor, W. 396 W. Chambers and others. The first officers as appointed by the Grand Council were as follows: J. G. Griffin, T. I. G. M.; C. N. S. Taylor, D. T. I. G. M.; H. P. Hart, P. C. W. The charter was signed by Phillip Sweigart, G. P., and A. G. 1-lodges, G. R., and was executed at Frankfort, Ky. Some few years ago all the coun- cils were suspended by enactment of the Grand Lodge, the inten- tion being to dispense with that branch of the Masonic order. Thle. council in Owenshoro was sustained until abolished by this enactment. Order of Foresters.-A society of this order was organized in this city Dec. 25, 1877, with about sixty members, which number increased to eighty. Object, mutual insurance, etc., similar to the A. 0. U. W. Dr. C. C. Lewis was the instigator of the movement here. Henry P. Tompkins was Chief Ranger. The society paid one assessment, and in about eighteen months died. Sons of Temperance.-A lodge of this order was organized in Owensboro in the fall of 1846. A. G. Munn, Grand Worthy Pa- triarch, of Louisville, was the instituting officer. There were but ten or twelve charter members, of which the following is a partial list: Geo. Scarborough, S. M. Moorman, Geo. N. McKay, Richard McKay, Frank L. Hall, Wm. B. Wall, Finley W. Wall, Joseph Mills, Ridgley Griffith. The society convened in the second story of an old frame building that stood on the ground now occupied by McCullough's Hotel. The lodge was short-lived. During the first year of its existence it flourished finely, and swelled its member- ship to over 150. They had numerous street parades and other public demonstrations in 1847 and 1848. After the last named year, owing to the withdrawal of some of the leading pirits and a general absence of interest by those who had grown tired of the routine of lodge business, the attendance diminished and it was finally voted to surrender the charter, having been in exist ence but little over three years. As near as we can learn, the first Worthy Patriarch was Geo. Scarborough, followed by S. M. Moor- mao. The first Conductor was Ridgley Moorman. who was suc- ceeded by Frank L. Hall. Temple qf ilonor. -This is a secret temperance society of a very I igh grade, which grew out of the order of Sons of Temperance many years ago, dating its independent existence in 1846. Very shortly after that date a lodge was organized in Owvensboro, which flourished until the war, having a membership at one time of as many as fifty. Their ritual was beautiful and their discipline 397 OWENSBORO. HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. strict. They had regalia, and indulged in public demonstrations occasionally. The members were called "'Templars of Honor." We append here a li 1848: E. T. Allen, Jas. A. Haggard, Geo. N. McKay, E. G. Cannon, Fieldon B. Meek, Rev. A. H. Triplett, John T. Sebastian, John P. Tracy, Geo. D McLean, Jas. M. Holmes, Elias Barker, James Lackey, Rev. R. G. Gardiner, J. Littell, James W. Mahon. Most of the above Daviess County. but ist of the members we find on the record ot W. N. Mason, R. G. Moorman, E. S. Marks, Geo. W. Triplett, Jas. J. Bowlds, Joseph Mills, Jas. J. Marks, W. B. Wall, W. T. Courtney, John J. McFarland. James Barnes, R. P. Aull, F. Lockett Hall, Gt orge Marks, A. B. Johnston, Samuel Wallace, Elisha Baker, John Summers, E S. McMannon, Erasmus Ford, John Jackson, William Prulzman, James W. Cannon, Srlomon Kigel, Rev. D. V. Kirtley, 0. S. Wilson, Samuel S. Heath, Geo. H. Hudson, names will appear familiar to the citizens of very few of the parties are residing here now. Good Temnplars.-The first lodge in Owensboro was organized about the first of March. 1868, as " Purity Lodge, No. 43," with R. W. MeFarland as W. C. T.; Miss Kate McLean, W. V. T.; Rev. W. C. Settle, Lodge Deputy; Philander Read, Treasurer. The membership at first was thirty to thirty-five, which rose to seventy-five or eighty at the height of their prosperity. Meetings were held weekly, but zeal in attendance diminished considerably, until the following re-organization was effected. Onward -Lodge, 1. 0. G. T., No. 520, was organized about 1870, by G. W. C. T. J. J. Hickman, with about fifty members. Geo. W. Maihis, W. C. T.; Miss Mary Parrish, W. V. T.; C. B. Mitchell, Lodge Deputy, etc. This society grew so large in a short time that the next mentioned, Speartan Lodge, I. 0. G. T.. was organized, in 1872, with about forty members, which increased in a short time to about sixty-five or seventy; but the attendance finally dwindled so low that some years ago its charter was surrendered. Onward Lodge reached a membership of over 300; and, although it has not met for about two years, it still holds its charter. The Younger Brotherm of Temperance was a society of youth, originally under the auspices of the Sons of Temperance, and kept in working order for several years. It accomplished a magnificent work. Nearly all who were members are now men forty to forty- five years of age. During the days of their greatest prosperity, 1. P. Washburne published and C. B. Mitchell edited a weekly ;98 temperance paper called the Fountain Journal, and devoted to temperance principles generally. It was a folio of five or six eighteen-inch columns to the page. Wbomen Temperance Workers.-This society was organized in February, 1882. It was instigated by a call published in the city papers, signed by Mrs. James Weir, Mrs. Bai!ey Todd, and Mrs. Baker Boyd, asking the ladies of the town to meet and organize for temperance work. The object of this society was to promote the interest of temperance generally, and especially to enforce Sunday liquor laws. The first meeting was held at the rooms (ot the Y. M. C. A.; thirty members were present. Mrs. Dr. E. H. Luckett was elected President; Mrs. Bailey Todd, Vice-President; Mrs. Baker Boyd, Secretary, and Miss Hettie Hughes, Treasurer. The enforcement of Sunday laws was not to incite the antipathy of any non-Puritan sect, but to secure to the working-man's family the result of his labors, by removing the possibility of his spend- ing his week's wages at an open saloon or rendezvous on Sunday. In March, 1882, they presented a largely signed petition to the Council, who, by vote, decided to enforce the " Sunday Law," and the Mayor issued a proclamation accordingly. One saloon remained open for a test case. This society took the matter up, employed counsel, prosecuted under the State law, and fined saloons outside of eity limits. Regular meetings of the society are lield at the rooms of the Y. M. C. A. The interest in the work is constantly increasing. Funds are raised by entertainments and subscriptions, and used as the society may direct-principally for attorneys' fees in prose- cuting cases where the Sunday law has been violated. Meetings are held for prayer and reading of Scriptures. Owensboro Fountain, No. 13, Younger Brothers of Temper- ance, was organized in 1847. The order was a State institution, conducted under the auspices of the Sons of Temperance. It admitted to membership boys and youths from twelve to eighteen years of age. The society in this city lived but a few years, but during its existence did much good in molding the habits of the youth of this community. The first officers were: George Scar- borough, Elder Brother; George Sebastian, Presiding Brother; John J. McFarland, Secretary. Stewart Lodge, No. 50, A. 0. U. W., was organized March 23, 1877, by J. F. Pearson, of Louisville, D. D. G. M. W., with a charter membership of sixty-three. The first officers were as fol- 399 OWENSBORO. HIsTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. lows: W. T. Ellis, P. M. W.; J. Q. A. Stewart, M. W.; W. G. Burnett, F.; J. W. Slaughter, 0.; W D. Osborne, Recorder; G. W. Coffey, Financier; Isaac Kennady, Receiver; W. J. Lucas, I. W.; J. F. Douglas, 0. W.; Win. H. Owen, Guide; W. H. Owen, A. J. Turpin and James Kennady, Trustees; James Kennady, District Deputy. The lodge was at first called AnclhorLodge, but April 7, 1877, this name was dropped, on account of there being another lodge in the State called Anchor Lodge, and it was named Stewart Lodge, in honor of the first presiding officer, Dr. J. Q. A. Stewart, now in Frankfort as Superintendent of the Institution for the Feeble-Minded. The office of Master Workman has been held by Dr. J. Q. A. Stewart, J. W. Carter, J. H. McHenry, James Ken- nady; J. W. Slaughter and D. R. Gash. The lodge has at present a membership of twenty. The present officers, chosen in July, 1882, are as follows: J. W. Slaughter, P. M. W.; James Ken- nady, AM. W.; J. V. Kruse, Foreman; P. T. Watkins, Guide; J. F. Harrison, Overseer; W. D. Osborne, Recorder; G. W. Coffey, Financier; Isaac Kennady, Receiver; D. R. Gash, I. W.; J. Goodapple, 0. W.; J. W. Slaughter, Representative to Grand Lodge. The lodge meets every Thursday evening, at the office of Colonel J. H. lcJIenry. J. H. McHenry and JamesKen- nady are officers in the Grand Lodge of Kentucky. The United Brothers of Friendship, NAo. 7, was organized in the winter of 1866-'7, with a charter membership of about twenty-five. It is a secret order confined to colored men. Among the first members were William Moreton, Sandy Alexander, Albert Jackson and Wesley Troutman. The object of the order was at first benevolence, but now insurance is combined with the working o the lodge. The limit of insurance is 3,000. The society has prospered, owning now 4,000 worth of property, and its member. ship now amounts to eighty, in good standing. The present officers: H. C. Helm, Master; Terry Howard, Deputy Master; Wm. Griffith, Secretary; Currier Valentine, Assistant Secretary; Albert Jackson, Treasurer; John Garnet, John Nepp, George Al- exander, Robert Daws and Pat Taylor. The society meets the first and third Mondays of each month, at their hall. The Little United Brotherc of Friendship was organized about 1872, with about fifteen members. It is a society composed of colored boys, and is under the control of the United Brothers of Friendship. It has now about sixty members in good standing. 401) This page in the original text is blank. riA... '';I , - , OWENSBORO. Si. Johnson is the President; Levi Bartlett, Vice President; Rob- ert Sherman, Secretary; John Nepp, Treasurer. The society meets twice a month, the second and fourth Mondays. The Little United Sisters of Friendship is immediately under the direction of the United Sisters. It was organized in August, 1881, and at the present time has over fifty members. It meets twice a month, at the hall of the United Brothers. The United Sisters of F'riendship is a secret order among the colored ladies of Owensboro. U. B. F. Temple, No. 8, was or ganized about 1868, with a membership of fifteen or twenty. It is under the direction of the United Brothers of Friendship, but holds separate meetings. Its objects are benevolence and socia- bility, and life insurance, limited to 1,500. The present mem- bership is over 300, and the prospects of the society are very bright. The presiding officer is denominated Princess, and is at present Mrs. Lizzie D.mws; the Secretary is Mrs. Annie Verrin. The society meets at the U. B. F. Hall, the first and third Tues- day night of each month. Yost Lodge, No. 2,525, K. of H., was instituted June 23, 1831, by Colonel W. H. Yost, of Greenville, Ky., District Deputy Grand Dictator, in honor of whom the lodge was named. Nineteen per- sons composed the first membership, although about thirty-five had signed the application for a charter, several of whom were subsequently admitted as charter members, by virtue of a dispen- sation having been granted for that purpose. The first officers were: Lawson Reno, Past Dictator; Malcolm McIntyre, Dic- tator; M. H. Webber, Vice-Dictator; R. D. Bailey, Assistant Dictator; H. L. Cambridge, Reporter; N. S. Roark, Financial Reporter; A. B. Miller, Treasurer; C. F. Smith, Chaplain; Silas MeClung, Guide; T. D. Gibson, Guardian; G. W. Hildebrant, Sentinel; J. D. Powers, E. G. Buckner, William H. Murphy, Trustees; Dr. A. C. Haynes, Medical Examiner. Yost Lodge was organized in the hall of the Masonic Temple, and for a few weeks held its stated meetings in that hall; but since then has occupied Odd Fellows fHall, corner of St. Ann and Third streets. The lodge had a steady growth, and at the end of six months numbered forty-three members, showing the largest increase dur- ing the time of any lodge in the State, according to the official report of J. A. Demaree, Grand Reporter. The principal officers were re-elected for the second term, and under their administra- tion the society continued to prosper, until at the close of one year 26 401 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. it numbered sixty-three members in good standing, again showing the largest increase in membership of any lodge in the State. Since that time the lodge has hardly maintained its hitherto enviable reputation as the "Banner Lodge," and at the close of December, 1882, her roll-book contained only sixty members in good stand- ing. The January term, 1883, commences under favorable auspices, on a solid financial footing, with money in the treasury, and an efficient corps of officers, chief of whom are A. E. Reese, Dictator; J. Al. Oppenheimer, Vice-Dictator; W. N. Catlen, Reporter; 1. Rosenthal, Financial Reporter; Dr. C. H. Todd,, Medical Examiner. During a period of more than nineteen months there has been no depletion of membership by death, and only four have been on the sick list. The lodge pays a sick benefit of 5 per week during the illness of members in good standing, and during its organization has paid out in weekly benefits about 150. Harmonic Lodge, No. 114, D. 0. H., was organized June 14, 1865, with seven members and the following officers: A. Miller, C. Green, A. Steitler, V. Present officers are A. Schaid, E. 1.; E. Seelen, O.B.; Janaes Schmitt, U. B.; F. Sommer, President; George Unsa, Secretary. Present membership, forty-six. Meetings are held on Tuesday night at Harigari Hall. This is a benevolent society. General James S. Jackson Post, Xo. 3, Grand Army of the Re- public, was mustered Feb. 6, 1S82, at Odd Fellows' Hall, Owens- boro, with a membership of thirty-seven. The post was mustered by Post Commander Colonel W. H. Keller, of Evansville. The offi- cers chosen at that time, and who are still acting at this writing, are as follows: J. II. Fisher, Commander; E. B. Allen, Senior Vice-Commander; B. F. Meredith, Junior Vice-Comnmnander; Dr. J. F. Kimnbley, Surgeon; J. D. VWilson, Officer of the Day; W. C. Moreton, Adjutant; J. A. Brown, Quartermaster; J. M. White- head, Chaplain. The post has rapidly increased in membership, hlaving now over eighty comrades, fromn all parts of Daviess County. It meets every Monday night, at Odd Fellows HalL. C. I1. Todd Conclave, iVo. 8, of Heptasqpvs, or Seven Wise Men, was organized in Owensboro, in Marcb, 1878. It was a secret order, having its origin in New Orleans, and growing up as sud- denly as a mushroom in the night. Its numbers in Oweiisboro, in the course of eight weeks, grew to 200, comprising many of the best men of the place. The chief object of the association was 402 mutual insurance. Meetings were held weekly, but in about a year it died out, and there is not now an affiliating member in Owensboiro. SOCIAL AND MISCELLANEOUS ORGANIZArIONS. Bachelors' Club.-A society by this name was organized in Ow- ensboro several years ago, with constitution, by-laws and officers; but, although social entertainments are still occasionally given in their name, the club as a definite organization is probably mnore mythical than real. The young men of the city, as a bachelors' club, give annual hops during the agricultural fair; and the annual business meetings which the old organization is supposed still to hold, are very spicily written up by the Post. Thespian Society.-This dramatic company flourished about 1856-'8. The star actor was lenry E. Smith, who played as Claude Melnotte in " Lady of Lyons," Oct. 5, 1857, which was the first play of the company. Other actors were Dr. James Conway, John O'Brien, Dora Shaw and Mrs. Libby-all professionals. About these times Sallie St. Clair, who has since married Lawrence Bar- rett, fulfilled engagements here as Lucretia, Camille, etc. In 1867 another dramatic amateur company was formed here, composed entirely of home talent. Rosa Pope was the star. The Economical Social Club took the lead in the winter of 1844 -'5, in giving hops, etc. M. II. Q.-This was a society of a dozen lads, organized about two years ago, for social enjoyments. The signification of the initials of their name is not public. Robert Pottinger, Jr., was President; Eugene Pattinger, Vice-President; Win. Lancaster, Secretary, and Charles Elder, Treasurer. They had dances and a great deal of sport, but the organization, as such, is now practically abandoned. The Aonarch Ridfes, a military company formed under the State laws of Kentucky, was organized Oct. 16, 1879, with upward of forty members. The first officers were S. H. Ford, Captain; Austin Berry, First Lieu tenant; G. V. Triplett, Second Lieutenant. The non-commissioned officers comprised four Corporals and four Sergeants. Their first meetings were held in the City Hall and sub- sequently in the court-house, under the provisions of a law requiring counties to permit the use of such buildings for the accommodation of State military companies. Soon, however, they felt the need of more spacious and exclusive quarters, and removed to their present 403 O WENSBORO . HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. location, known as Armory Hall, on the river, between Frederica and St. Ann streets. The room is 80 x 160 feet, and is considered one of the finest and largest in the State, being second only to the quarters of the Louisville company. Regular business meetings of the company are held the first Tuesday in every month, and meet- ings for regular drill on Friday evening of each week. They have dress and fatigue uniforms. Their arms are the United States improved Springfield breech-loaders. Their camp equipments are very complete, from tents to utensils. This company holds the bannergiven by the Adj utant-General for the highest average dress inspection of any company in the State. They went into camp in the summer of 1881, at the fair grounds in Ovensboro, and in the fall of the same year attended the centennial celebration of the sur- render of Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown. Following is a list of the names of members in attendance at the celebration: Captain S. H. Ford; Lieutenants Austin Berry and G. V. Trip- lett; Sergeants Armendt, Chisom, Ford and Watkins; Corporals Haney, Hickman, Gentry and Guenther; Privates Johnny Allan, Louis Baer, John Bishop, Wm. Binion, Louis Carter, Oscar Cot- trell, Arthur Ford, Fred Gipe, John Gray, David Graves, J. J. Hill, Kelly, J. W. Maddox, J. L. Maddox, Harmon -Miller. Geo. Milne, Win. Rudd, Jerry Small, Edgar Troutman, Ben Wile, Hugh Williams, Jas. Whitehead, JolhnWilhoyte, George Zins'atid Frank Wecker. In the summner of 1882, Captain Ford, who was instrumental in organizing the company, and to whose efforts is largely due its present prosperous condition, resigned. Its present coin missioned officers are: Austin Berry, Captain; W. B. Artnendt, First Lieu- tenant; C. F. Kelley, Second Lieutenant. There are now between forty and fifty members. fusjical.-A brass band was organized in the city in 1858, and led by Piof. Buck, for a year or two. The " Combination Silver' Cornet Band" of 1S72 was unIer the leadership of Prof. Frank Brewer. O. D. Read was President and Wm. Reinhiardt Secretary of this band. The "Frohsinn Singing Society," German, gave entertainments in the winter of 1874-'5. Besides the foregoing. there have been numerous smaller or transient associations, as singing societies, music bands, debating clubs, base-ball clubs, guilds, etc., etc. 404 OWENSBOR O. CEMETERIES. The first burying ground for Owensboro was on Fourth street, south of the public square, and in the vicinity of the old " Masonic Lodge" building. It extended west to St. Elizabeth street. Most of the dead who were buried there still remain. In 1 840 the place of burial was changed to a point on the Henderson road, just beyond the city limits. Most of the remains buried here have been removed. Paupers, however, are still buried in this ground. In 1852 the cemetery was moved to the southeastern portion of the city, comprising the ground between Triplett and Center streets, and Fourth and Sixth. All the dead buried here have been re- moved. These grounds were owned by a company of stockholders, and controlled by a directory. The first two spoken of above were owned and controlled by the city. Elmwood kiemetery.-In the year 1856, seeing the necessity for a cemetery, a company of the citizens of Owensboro was formed, composed of William Bell, James Weir, R. M. Hathaway, George Scarborough, D. Al. Griffith, F. M. Pearl, J. B. Anderson, Robeu t Craig, John II. McHenry, Sr., S. M. Wing and E. A. Hathaway, who purchased of R. M. Hathaway and F. M. Pearl nine acres and a fraction of ground in what is known as Hathaway's addition to Owensboro, and named same "Rural Cemetery." The use of said grounds was continued until 1868, when, owing to their smallness and the growth of the city around them), it became necessary to seek a more spacious and suitable place for a cemetery. After due consideration, forty acres of ground, situated about one mile southeast of Owensboro, on the hartford road, were selected and purchased of John G. Barkley, by the following persons: S. M. Wing, James Weir, R. M. Hathaway, D. M. Griffith, J. F. Kimbley, C. Griffith, T. S. Venable, W. B. Tyler, W. N. Sweeney, B. Bransford, T. S. Anderson, David Hamilton, J. 11. McHenry, Jr., Charles Werner, John G. Barkley, W. T. Courtney, S. H. Ford and W. H. Perkins. C. R. Milne, in May, 1875, was admitted into thie company, on the same footing with the above-named stockholders, and each one received a certificate of the company's indebted ness to him for 200, to bear twelve per cent. interest, annually. The name given to the grounds was "' Rural Hill Cemetery "-chai red in April, 1869, to Elrnwood, its present name. Nearly all the persons buried in the old cemetery were removed 405 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. to the new at the expense of- the company, and each lot-owner in the old cemetery received a lot in the new one instead. Improve ments were immediately begun on the new grounds--a good brick house erected for the sexton, grounds fenced in, surveyed, divided into lots, roads and some substantial brick drains made. This was done under the supervision of Mr. R. M. Hathaway, the first Pres- ident of the Elmwood Cemetery Company, and to his close attention, good taste and judgment is due much that is beautiful and substantial on the premises. In order to do all this, much money was expended by the company in anticipation of receipts, which, meantime, came in slowly, while expenses continued and interest accrued. In short, the indebtedness of the company increased constantly, the stockholders became weary waiting for returns and many of them sold their stock, the majority of which came into the hands ot T. S. Anderson. The debt had now (1878) accumulated to such a size that the annual interest on it, to say nothing of the necessary running expenses of the cemetery, amounted to more than the entire yearly receipts from all sources; and, the affairs of the company being in such a condition that each year's business increased the debt and decreased the assets (as the lots were sold), it became evident to the creditors that some change must be made in the finances. The directors were urged to make arrangements to pay off the debt, if possible, but they seemed unable to do so. T. S. Anderson, being the largest creditor, then proposed to give the company one year's time, without interest, on his claim, if they would secure it, but this was declined. He then proposed to pay the entire debt of the cemetery, himself, if the company would transfer its prop- erty to him. It was generally conceded at the time that the entire property of the cemetery would not pay its debts at a forced sale, a d, as before said, the debt was increasing yearly. The directors said the proposition was liberal, mnore so than they would be willing to make, and on the 25th of June, 1878, the cemetery and assets wvere conveyed by deed to T. S. Anderson, on condition that he should pay all debts of the cemetery, and that the grounds should be forever us cd as a burial ground and kept in good order. Upon taking charge of the cemetery, and after consulting the best authorities (Spring Grove Cemetery, Cincinnati; Cave Hill, Louisville, and Oak Hill, Evansville), he decided to divide some of the lots, heretofore entirely too large, into sizes to suit t he wants of every family; and as the past experience of the comipany had 406 sho vn that the old price of lots was not enough to keep the ceme- tery out of debt, the price of lots per square foot has been increased; but even now the prices of the best ground is only one fourth of that of the same in Cave Hill, and not more than one third of that in Oak lill, Evansville. The entire debt of the old company has been paid off and the cemetery is now on a firm footing. Some improvements leave been made already, as can readily be seen, and others will be made. It is intended that Elmwood shall be a first-class cemetery in every respect, and much more labor and care will be given it than ever before. The Catholic Cemetery is located about a half mile below town, on the Henderson road. It comprises about nine acres. It was laid out in October, 1861. PUBLIC BENEVOLENCE. The people of Owensboro exhibit that promptness in philan- thropic demands which is characteristic of Kentuckians. March 8, 1867, a general relief committee, with auxiliary com- mittees throughout the county, was organized for the relief of the suffering poor in the South. This organization did something considerable; but during the spring another organization was effected, which, it seems, did much more. In. the fall of 1878 the citizens of Owensboro raised about 1,200 for the relief of sufferers in the South. Owensboro rallied nobly to the relief of the Chicago sufferers, after their great fire of Oct. 9, 10, 1871. [See Chapter XIV. for philanthropic enterprises comprising the county. ] OWENSBORO POSTMASTERS. In the days of President Polk, Jesse Bristow was Postmaster. The office was on the river, in one of the old Morton houses, where Ben Bransford's stemmery has since been. Mr. B. was consumptive, and therefore irritable; but was a good Postmaster. His successors in office have been George Holmes, Solomon How- ard, Thomas Higdon, James Watkins, Dr. Stephen F. Ogden, the Megill Bros., Jesse Moore, S. C. Wing (son of S. M. Wing), and Lawson Reno. Dr. Ogden was a jolly, faithful, patient official. Mr. Reno and his assistants seem to be as accommodat- ing as anybody could wish. Mr. Reno and his deputy, C. B. Mit- OWENSBORO . 407 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. shell, have had the office since Feb. 2, 1880, and they are the best men for the place that could be found. Indeed, they are the most accommodating postmasters we ever saw. Daily mail to Owensboro was first established in November, 1869, througi the enterprise of Postmaster Foster, of Evansville. BRIEF MENTION. Most of the items given under this head are taken from that remarkable diary of Mr. Joseph Thomas, described at the begin- ning of Chapter XIII. Some of the events here referred to did not transpire in Owensboro, but in the vicinity; and as only a brief mention is made of them, we find it more convenient to col. late them all together in a sort of chronological table. 1844. March 12, at five P. M., the steamers Sultana and Alex. Scott left New Orleans, and arrived at Owvensboro the 17th at eleven o'clock, A. M., being out from New Orleans four days, seven- teen hours and forty minutes,-the quickest trip ever made to this place. The Scott beat the Sultana to the mouth of the Ohio by one hour. Average speed, eleven miles per hour. The Sul- tana broke her cam-rod, and ran an hour and a half with one wheel. May following, the Duke of -Orleans came up, beating the Sultana one hour. May 25. military muster in Owensboro. Colo- nel Butler and Judge Owsley, candidates for Governor, delivered addresses. Heavy thunder-storm to-day also, the lightning strik- ing the court-house and market-house. Measles prevalent. June 1, meeting of the Clay Club. Speeches by Devereux, Johnson, Weir and Crow. The S. B. Montgomery made the trip to Louisville in four days, twenty-three hours and fifty min- utes,-the first boat that ever made it under five days. Aug. 5, election very exciting; a great many drunk; only one or two fights, however. Much sickness during this month. River low. Rats worse than usual in their depredations in town. September, Dr. Lockhart, above town, died. Sept. 26, Thanks- giving day in Kentucky. Oct. 8, Wm. Watkins died, after a very severe and protracted illness. 408 Oct. 2, Whigs raised a flag-pole 120 feet high; a large meeting of Whigs, with music and banners. On the 3d, a great barbecue; ad- dresses were delivered by McHenry, Letcher, Calhoon, and Dixon. Ladies were present, who sung and shouted and waved their hand- kerchiefs. On the 8th, boys march with lights. Streets dusty. Dec. 27, Masonic celebration, by marching and ball. 1845. Feb. 11, P. Triplett's fine barn burned; 12th, Athy's stable burned, with horse. A fire company was immediately afterward organized, and a subscription raised for ladders, cisterns, etc.; but the enterprise soon " fell through." March, Sultana made the trip to Louisville in four days, twenty-one hours and fifty-eight minutes. April 7, Dr. Conway's house burned. June 9, C. Riley, Mr. Crow and A. Jones, candidates for Legis- lature, addressed the people. No. 20, Thanksgiving. 1846. Jan. 17, Mr. Clary's house burned. March 26, Dr. Wm. Morton, Jr., died. April and May, a deaf and dumb man gave writing lessons in town. May, exciting news from the Mexican war, and a volunteer corps of ninety-three foot was formed, with G. W. Triplett for Captain; seventy volunteered in one day; all too late for acceptance, how- ever. MeCreery raised a horse company. June 15, geological lectures. June 24, celebrations by the Freemasons. July, several boats passed with volunteers for the Mexican war. Aug. 5, exciting election; 10, county court and trustee election. Nov. 24, Dr. Williams died of congestive fever. December, two new packets-Courier and General Worth- running up Green River. Considerable excitement this month. On the 17th, three men-Harris, Pugh and Galloway-were tried before a magistrate for the murder of a store-boat keeper, Roberts, on Green River. The latter was dismissed and the other two were committed for further trial. On the 24th, the b'hoys about town got to shooting guns and bursting balls of twine filled with powder, and by so doing broke 409 OWENSBORO. HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. out many panes of glass. The trustees met and ordered the "said b'hoys" to repair the damages (8) within three days. 1847. Jan. 1, Sons of Temperance have a public march, to the number of forty, and were addressed by Rev. Mr. Hunter. March 8, first trip up the river, by the Alex. Scott. May 23-29, a jubilee, Revs. Depareq, Coomes and Coghlian officiating; 22, Pugh cleared of the charge of murder. June, Mexican volunteers of the previous year return home. 9, Thomas Field died. July 11, steamer Wheel of Fortune burned about 3 A. M., SiX miles below town. Aug. 2, exciting election. See Political chapter. September, Captain McCreery's company raised for the Mexican war Oct. 9, regimental muster, and D. Province elected Colonel; 19th, the steamer Concordia makes her first trip down the river; 20th, S. D. Johnson died. During the month, Prof. Honfleur taught drawing lessons. Joseph Thomas' pork-house completed. November and December, Mountaineer and Hibernia, packets. Dec. 25, march by the Sons of Temperance. 1848. Jan. 30, Mrs. Robert Triplett died, after a very short illness. April 1, Kerney Thomas take possession of grist-mill and commence running it. Aug. 15, Thomas Kelly died. Dec. 25, Sons of Temperance parade. 1849. May 27, music in the Catholic church,-the first ever in the town; 19, S. P. Hart died, of consumption. July 1, two deaths from Asiatic cholera. Wheat crop destroyed by rust. 1850. Jan. 5, P. S. Anderson died; 28, Captain Sharp died. Feb. 16, T. B. Fitch died; 26, Charley Harsford died, of con- sumption. 410 March, subscription for railroad. April 4, at 8:25 P. M., a sensible shock of learthquake; all the citizens were alarmed; 29, ff. Kerr Co.'s stemmery, filled with tobacco, burned early in the morning; 14, P. Triplett's cabin burned at night. May 13, a negro man died of' cholera in town. July 8, W. Edson, of Hartford, got off a steamer here with cholera and died; 9, old Aunt Grace died; 17, Mr. Steyfel, an old gentleman, died of cholera; 21, another death from cholera; 24; Mrs. II. Stanley died also of the same epidemic, and the next day her husband died with it. Wheat crop ruined again by rust. Aug. 7, Yontz died of cholera. During the month there were four or five other fatal cases of cholera. Sept. 28, M. McFarland died. October, considerable building in town---banking house, Bar- gess' store-house, M. E. church, R. P. Aull's dwelling, a splendid stemmery, and improvement of Main street. 1851. Jan. 28, Fawn, a new packet. April 17, Courtland, a packet. May, from middle onward, locuists abundant; 14, two deaths from cholera. Fruit destroyed this month by frosts. June 22, Charles Ogden drowned; 29, Joseph Ogden died. Crops promise fair. Several deaths from dysentery. July, wheat good this season. A hot month. Aug. 16, J. W. Lanharn died; also Howard T. Taylor, one of the best farmers and citizens of the county, was accidentally killed by the discharge of a gun in the hands of Dr. Wilmot. Fif- teen buckshot entered his heart, three of which went throu(gh him. The gun was so near him that the flash set fire to his shirt. He fell, exclaiming, " Lord, have mercy on me; I am killed; " and was dead before those immediately behind hium could raise him up. Aug. 27, W. Murphy died of cholera. Sept. 5, Joe Stout and T. Kincheloe died; 2, "Dumb Billy Adams " died; 7, Mrs. Hall's son died of cholera; 10, P. Triplett's girl died of elholera; 19, Mr. I-Hathaway, a painter, died; 22, James Jones died, aged ninty-onei on July fourth preceding. River exceedingly low. 411 OWENSBORO . HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. October, about the second, A. L. Beard died; 4, T. O'Flynn died; about the twenty-eighth, Ralph Calhoon died; 23, death of Mrs. Trible. Nov. 1, J. Phelan died; 8, Samuel Morton died of apoplexy; 9, James Murphy died; 12, wife of Richard Thomas died. Dec. 9, Robert Winsor died; 10, Simpson Stout died. 1852. Jan. 8, death of Mat. Kirkpatrick; 10, of Robert Triplett, with erysipelas; 13, of V. A. Pegram, with erysipelas; also the death of Fanny Mayo, with congestion of the brain; also of Mr. Stone, an old gentleman; 18, of Miss Allison; 19, of Dr. Hill; 23, of Miss Sarah Triplett. with erysipelas; 24, of Mrs. P. Trip- lett, with same, and Mrs. Hathaway and Thomas Worley; 26, Mr. Combe's slave "Louis," also with erysipelas. A month of extraordinary mortality. Feb. 1,' Miss De Lovell, a teacher, died; 3, Mrs. Combe died, some say of erysipelas; 7, death of F. W. Wall; 12, J. R. Kelly found dead in bed from apoplexy; 24, Helena Pegratn died. March 24, first trip of the great steamer Eclipse; also, Marcus McDaniel's cabin and houses were burned, and two small negroes with them. f The Eclipse was 360 feet long, and probably the largest that had ever been built in the. West; cost, 135,000. March 23, Mr. Thixton died of consumption; 24, Miss Laura Triplett died; 30, Philip Triplett died of erysipelas. April 22, Mrs. Hall died. May 2, J. J. Bowlds died; 13, a negro in the country died of cholera; 15, another case. June 6, Z. Blanford died of cholera; 16, MissBCalhoon died of typhoid fever; 18, George Calhooii died of same. July, spiritual rappings abundant. Sept. 27, death of Miss Carico, Mrs. Campbell and a man below town. i Oct. 15, Judge Calhoon died at Louisville, and remains brought home on the 18th. Joseph Thomas's steam flouring mill and carding machine were burned on the 1st of this month, by an in- cendiary; loss about 8,000. A store adjoining, with 12,000 worth of goods, was also consumed. No insurance. Nov. 14, Mrs. Simmons (nee Sally Smith) died. 412 OWENSBORO. 1853. Jan. 13, A. L. Shotwell first trip down; a fast boat. March 5, twelve boats passed. April 12, Telegraph No. 3 made the best time. May 13, James Jones died; 18, Eclipse passed,-only three days and twenty-one hours from New Orleans, in a race with the A. L. Shotwell, which was sixteen to twenty minutes longer reaching Louisville. The latter left New Orleans three days after the Eclipse. 27, four white men entered Capt. Bob McFarland's house, dragged him from his bed at his wife's side, inflicted sev- .eral severe blows upon his face with an ax, and then left him dead on the floor. They fired a gun, but no bullet wound could after- ward be found upon the body. June 15, Dr. John Roberts died. July 4, Mrs. Stirman died; 31, Pointersl Washington drowned. This month Joseph Thomas made arrangements in Philadelphia to introduce the stereoscope into Kentucky. August and September, good crop of fruit of all kinds this sea- son. Town improving. Old court-house removed, to give place for a new building. Wharf enlarged, etc. Dec. 28, J. Johnston died. of typhoid fever. 1854. April 14, Mrs. Emma (nee Hawes) Nicholas died; 29, J. Hess died of cholera; there were two or three other cases of cholera during the month. June 27, Dr. Macgruder died, of consumption. Sept. 20 (about), Mr. Wilkinson died, of cholera, on board a steamer a few miles above town. Oct. 2, Hathaway's store and three other buildings burned; 11, J. H. May)hall died; 19, T. Burgess shot D. Murphy, and the latter died four days afterward. Nov. 1, C. Richardson hung by T. Landrum; about 2,500 per- sons present; 3, W. Thortm)oi and two others died of cholera; 4, Sydney Hewitt and J. Lainl)sen died of cholera; 5, J. Decker died. "Hard Times" for want of money. Dec. 7, Owensboro Gazette commenced; 16, S. Collier died. 413 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. 1855. Jan. 27, in the evening, at J. H. Daveiss' mill, Alex. Mason, a young man, was killed. He was putting a belt on the drum at- tached to the fly-wheel, and slipped and fell so that an arm of the wheel caught his shoulder and head and drew him into the wheel pit. His head was mashed to a jelly, and he lived but a few min- utes after he was taken out. Times harder this winter than before for many years. Provis- ions high and poor. Potatoes, 2 a bushel, and hard to get at that price. Meal, 70 to 75 cents a bushel, and flour, 8.50 a barrel. No vegetables save turnips, and these were 80 cents a bushel, whereas the usual price is 12 to 15 cents. Corn, 60 cents at the crib and scarce. April 9, John Combe died; 11, Wm. Rogers died; 18, Mrs. Thornton died; 30, Mrs. P. Johnson (Mrs. Ford) died. May 3, S. Childers' brick store fell down. June 11, Geo. W. Mason died. Wheat crop fine, and cut early. July 4, corner-stone of court-house laid; 30, Know-Nothings hold a mass meeting; 24, Mrs. J. Davidson died; 29, T. W. Watkins died. Aug. 3, Mitchell Calhoon died; also, " Sister" Raphaella; 31, Evan Merriweather died. Sept. 6, steamer William Garvin, a packet; 11, Weir's fruit- house burned; 16, Mrs. H. Dugan died. Oct. 16-19, fair; receipts about 565; 2, Major Ben Read died; 5, Tom Sale shot his wife. Chills prevalent this month. 1856. Jan. 12, Mrs. Webb died, of c6nsuniption; 14, Dr. Hodges died. Feb. 3, Hoskins' child burned to death. March 29, R. A. Reed died. April 4, Wm. Sansberry died; 28, Mr. Athis died. May 10, Gilly Jones died. June 24, Mrs. Mc-ilveny died; 25, Henry Faith died. July 1, Joseph Thomas, Jr., died of pneumonia, aged ten years; 25, Mr. Delahunt died. Ang. 6, National American, a Know-Nothing paper, pub- lished in Owensboro; 17, Mrs. McClarty died; 20, Solomon Kigel died. 414 OWENSBORO. September, provisions high and difficult to be obtained, on account of drouth; 23, Frank Head died. Oct. 11, Mrs. H. Decker died; 22, Mrs. J. Carlin died; 27, Mrs. Kate Craig died; 30, John Snyder died. A very sickly month. 1857. May, small-pox scare; 29, a death in town from this disease; 27, G. W. Farrow died, from kicks given by Hugh B. Lea. The small-pox was introduced by a German who came to Kenney's Exchange. Several contracted the disease. Public meetings for- bidden. l June 7, nine cases of small-pox or varioloid in town. Dull time in a business point of view. July 1, crops very promising; wheat excellent; 30, a little small- pox yet. Sept. 4, Mrs. Wall died; 21, John Talbott's child burned to death; 26, George Slaughter died; 30, W. B. Johnson died, of typhoid fever. Oct. 5, Histrionic Association opened in "Lady of Lyoins.'' Nov. 7, Mrs. Sarah Thomas died of consumption; 20, H. Manzy killed his wife, and died in jail on the 24th. 1858. Jan. 13, J. HI. Daveiss died. Considerable sickness this month- typloid fever and pneumonia, and a few cases of small-pox and varioloid. In the country were some cases of scarlet fever. J. S. Dawson lost four children by this disease. Feb. 2, J. F. Hunter died of typhoid fever; 19, Scioto No. 2, a packet. March 9, three marriages at 4 P. M.; 26, Elijah Rafferty died. April 20, Miss Mollie Wlhayne died, of consumption. May 30, Mrs. McKay, an old lady, died. Aug. 11, Mrs. N. Hiarlow died; 22, Mrs. Dean died. Sept. 6, Mrs. McAtee died. Oct. 17, death of Martin Watkins, and on 31st, Mrs. Story. Nov. 6, death of Grat son Brooks. January-deaths: 2, Mrs. Dan. Kennady; 3, Temp. Sublett; 10, Sam. Cottrell; 14, Dr. S. F. Ogden, and Mrs. E. Marks; 22, Mrs. Waters. Feb. 7, Ada Roberts died. 415 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. March 1, J. McKee died; 12, death of "old" Tom Grooms. April 12, death of J. B. Watkins. July 3, Salmnon's house robbed and burned by negroes; 12, death of Mrs. Trubler; 16, of Mary Yeaman; 17, of S. Paxton. Aug. 28, new African church dedicated. Oct. 19, Mr. Hicks's house burned; 22, Ben Allen died. Nov. 24, Eliza W. Hobbs died, of hemorrhage of the lungs and disease of the heart. Only twelve hours afterward her servant from childhood, Roselle, died. Dec. 30, death of Mr. Harl and Mrs. Yeager. 1860. Jan. 30, Mr. Pegram's house burned. Feb. 22, spire of the Baptist church, just finished, was blown down, with scaffolding; damage about 1,500. Whooping-cough prevailing. March 20, J. Mitchell's store, Dodson's stable and three or four houses burned. April 29, death of Dr. Todd. May 19, death of Mrs. Shelby. Aug. 7, earthquake sensibly felt by everybody. Sept. 10, James Hoskins died of typhoid fever; Mrs. John Long, of consumption; 16, Baptist church opened for services for the s St time. Oct. 24. death of Mrs. Reinhardt; 25, Cumberland Presbyterian Synod commences. Nov. 2, R. M. Dorsey died; 8, R. E. Cassiday died. Dec. 9, Larry Murphy died; 17, Deposit Bank in operation; 22, John Allen died; 24, Pat Enright froze to death, while drunk; 31, a street lamp lighted at night. 1861. Jan. 4, a day of prayer and fasting generally observed by the citizens for the sake of reconciling the North and the South. Stores all closed and churches mostly opened. Business almost suspended during the month, on account of the pecuniary depres- sion caused by secession, etc.; Jan. 19, Sam Hawes, died. Feb. 2, Methodist revival; 20, Judge Stuart, on petition, deter- mined to render no judgments for debt this term, on account of the unsettled state of the country and consequent scarcity of money. There were 603 suits for debt on the docket. 416 April 8, Fanny Grissom died; 15, Crockett and Teaman spoke, on the occasion of the surrender of Fort Sumter, S. C.; 22, speeches by J. C. Breckenridge and A. Dixon; secession gaining ground; 21, Mrs. Clements died. May 13, George Howard, died; 18, forty of the " Home Guards" paraded with muskets, for the first time; 28, " Dixie Guards " left for the Southern army; 31, death of Mrs. Nunn and McDaniel. July 17, "Home Guards " sworn by Judge Botts; 29, Mrs. J. Hathaway died. Aug. 17, Wash Thompson died. Oct. 16, death of Ben Hawes; 17, of Sid Gough. Dec. 5, James Talbot died of typhoid fever; 6, Win. H. Kin- ney's father died; 7, death of Mat. Cushing; 23, Miss Mollie Long died; 24, Mrs. O'Callaghan died. 1862. May 12, R. Hnghes died; 14, Mr. Dillman died; 1, Baptist As- sociation commences; 15, Cumberland Presbyterian Assembly con- vened; 17, Mrs. Henry Scott died of consumption; 29, "Old" Jerry Yewell died. July 22, Mrs. McHenry died. Aug. 1, Mrs. James Talbot died; 7, Jesse Mason and J. C. Tal- bot died; 10, Mrs. Green died in Danville. Oct. 1, Methodist Conference commences; 29, Mrs. .J. Bristow died; crops fair this year; imported groceries high and money scarce. Nov. 30, earthquake at 9:30 A. Mr; 29, Willis Field murdered. Dec. 3, Mrs. Whayne died; 6, earthquake; 8, Wm. Evans died; 9, death of Mrs. Wm. Talbott; 29, Mrs. J. G. Howard and Mrs. McManns died. Greenbacks abundant and small change scarce; merchants issuing individual checks for 5 to 50 cents. 1863. Jan. 18, Isaac Kerney died; 23, death of Rowell Robinson. Feb. 11, Mrs. Wm. Norris died. March 16, Mrs. J. G. McFarland died; 20, Mrs. Wash. Jones died; 25, death of John Dugan. Solomon J. Howard's house fired twice this month by an incendiary, but the fire was extinguished both times without much damage. 27 417 OWENSBORO. HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. April 9, J. Rudd's house burned; 17, Mrs. Ann Read died. May 19, death of John Moorman. June 2, Andrew Jones died; 8, death of Allen Wilhoye, an old gentleman. July 20, J. Fuqua died. Sept. 27, Mrs. T. C. McCreery died. Oct. 3, Wm. Phelan died; 5, Gregory Arns died from a stabbing received three days previously; 13, Silas Mason died; 15, Slaughter Newton died of typhoid fever, and Jake Leffler also died. Dec. 6, J. B. Tarascon, a new packet; 8, Henry Thomas died of peritonitis; 21, Miss Salmons died about this time. 1864. Jan. 7, Mr. Campbell's house burned; 15, S. Strauss, returning from Louisville, drowned about this time; 17, Bill Watkins ("Yel- low Bill") died; 23, L. Sims's tobacco stemmery burned; 24. Mrs. Hayden died; 29, death of Cunningham. March 5, Colonel Thruston died. April 15, John Leaman died. June 7, Viss Kim Smith died. July 29, Mrs. Edlin (J. Lancaster's daughter) died. Aug. 18, Q. D. Mitchell killed by a negro picket. Sept. 22, new packet, Morning Star-first trip- Oct. 17, death of James B. Anderson. He was born in Lexing- ton, Ky., in 1808. After living at Louisville a number of years, he came to Owensboro, about 1836 or 1837, and engaged in farming until the fall of 1849, when he was elected Cashier of the Owens- boro branch of the Southern Bank, which position he retained, the bank reorganizing as the Planters' meanwhile, until his death, Oct. 17, 1864. He was an Elder in the Presbyterian church, and an exemplary Christian citizen. Dec. 17, Barna McNamee and Mrs.J. H. Nelson died; 25, death of J. M. Rogers, an old citizen. 1865. Jan. 10, Anselm Watkins died; 29, John Hutchins found frozen to death; 24, Mrs. A. Imbler died. 31, Sam Trible died, very suddenly. Feb. 5,' first mail received in Owensboro since Jan. 25; 25, death of Mrs. Ben. Read (nee Mary Kerney) and of Mrs. Cox; 28, Wm. Bell died. 418 March 6, Madame Berthoud died; 7, small-pox, erysipelas and spotted fever in the city; 12, Mrs. R. G. Moorman died. April 7, the splendid steatner 'Ruth made her first trip on the Ohio; 12, Emma Queen died; 17, business suspended and crape on the doors, on account of Lincoln's death; 22, J. Bodine died. May 2, Mrs. Clint. Griffith died; 15, J. Nelson's store burned. June 24, Masonic celebration. July 6, Mrs. W. Berry died; 17, Miss Mollie Scott died; 22 Tom Monlohan died; 23, Mr. Webb, the hotel-keeper, died. Aug. 2, Colonel Ewing, an old citizen, died; 26, G. I. Yeaman appointed Minister to Denmark. Sept. 8, death of Mr. Kennady, uncle of S. D. Oct 9, Hon. G. H. Yeaman and family left for Denmark; 20, Mrs. Stewart, an old lady, died; 21; Mrs. Webb died, also John L. Goodrum; 25, death of W. B. Hall. Nov. 3, Green Crabtree died; 30, death of Sam Beers. Dec. 7, Thanksgiving; 3, Wash. Jones died. 1866. Jan. 1, Mrs. Winchester found dead in bed; 7, J. R. Allen also found dead in bed. Jan. 30, the steamer Missouri exploded her boilers, some ten miles above Evansville. Her hull sank instantly, while her cabin. full of water, floated off. Among the lost was Mr. George A. Peters, a well-known and respected citizen and merchant of Owens- boro. His state-room was immediately over the boiler. The numn- ber of deck-passengers and crew that was lost was seventy or eighty. The shock of the explosion was distinctly felt in Owens- boro, a distance of about thirty miles. Feb. 3, Mrs. Noel killed by explosion of the W. A. Carter; 13, Mrs. Colonel Ewing died; 15, Mr. Johnson died, the result of wounds inflicted by a homicide; S. V. Rogers died; 25, death of Warner Crow. March 3, Anthony Fuqua (col.) killed by a stage-driver; 1() death of Atlas Jones. Some floods this month. April 18, death of Captain E. S. Ayres; 21, C. Hiller's house burned. May 15, Mrs. Bell's barn burned by an incendiary, with three horses; 17, Cumberland Presbyterian Assembly convened; 21, "Tom," a negro boy, hung on the courthouse square by a mob; 419 OWENSBORO. HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. 27, death of "1 Jack" Ayres; 31, William Shelby's dwelling burned; 20, a negro named "Tom" was tried before City Judge Washburn for rape. On his way to the jail an unknown party placed one end of a rope over his head, and threw the other end over a limb of a tree in the court-house yard, and the father of the injured girl drew the prisoner up, where he was kept suspended twenty or thirty minutes, and until after he was quite dead. June 25, death of John Hathaway. July, wheat crop very fine, but not so large as the previous year; 21, Confederate tournament above town. Aug. 19, Mr. Jones's death, from cholera; 23, Miss Warner died, of same. Sept. 15, another case of cholera; 20-27, very wet; great dam- age to railroads. Oct. 26, the three stores of Messrs. Kendall, Moise and Oppen- heimier were burned; loss, 20,000; 29, John Pope died, of con- sumption. Nov. 9, Tom Barron died; 30, James M. Smith died. Dec. 5, death of Miss Nannie Ewing; 29, telegraph line to Louis- ville commenced. 1867. Jan. 11, death of J. G. Harrison; 15, Lizzie Thomas died; 17 and 18, Admiral Semmes delivered two very fine lectures in Court Hall, on the cruise of the Alabama, physical geography of the sea, etc.; 31, Dr. Allen died, of cancer. Feb. 7, Judge Stuart moved to Oweiisboro. March, a cold, wet, backward spring. April 25, 26, frost. Latest spring ever witnessed here. May 18, body of G. Gossens found dead. Coldest May ever seen here. June 28, Jo Dryer died, from 'gunshot wounds inflicted by Bradshaw. July 14, D. Hamilton's cooper shop burned; 15, R. Patrick's mill burned. Aug. 28, death of Mrs. Wm. Moorman, and 29, of Mrs. C. B. Hicks. Sept. 5, Pius Clark died. Oct. 13, Mrs. M. Loyd died; 21, death of J. H. Blair. Exces- sive drought. November, lovely Indian summer. December, commodities high, money scarce and business dull. 420 OWENSBORO. 1868. Jan. 13, Belle Lee's first trip down; 16, ice six inches thick; 18, "Jack" Bristow died; 21, Mr. Cate, an old man, died; 28, death of Mr. Pfister, from pneumonia; 29, coldest day this month-5. Feb. 4 and 10, good skating; il, death of Mrs. Isham Allen, and 14, of Mrs. Holmes, an old lady; 19, death of J. A. Scott, the saddler. March 21, Barna May, an old man, died; 24, death of Miss Josie Evans and Mr. Naumbeim; 25, Mr. Shedigger's house burned; 26, death of Mrs. E. Crook. Vegetation forward. April 1, death of Mr. Nelson; 3-6, frost and ice; 19, death of Mrs. J. Metcalf. May 14, Mrs. Eliza Watkins died, aged over forty-two years- disease of the heart. June 7, John S. McFarland died; 14, death of Dr. H. B. Roberts; 18, Clint. Sweeney drowned; 21-23, cool enough for fire in the evening and morning. July 6, new court-house ready for use, and the clerk's offices moved in; 17, one of the hottest days ever witnessed here-100; a negro woman killed by lightning at the Bransford Institute; 18, 19, over fifty persons sick from drinking milk which had been poisoned with some antimnonial preparation; no clue to the origin; none died; 30, James and Jay Mason died. Sept. 2, Co-operative Association met; 19, death of Mrs. Stemn- bridge, and 21, of Mrs. James Jackson. Oct. 14, death of Mrs. Craycroft. Nov. 10, death of Kitty Bell; 18, Dr. Mitcheson and W. Y. Cavin died. Dec. 12, P. Lyddan fell off a horse and was killed; 25, part of the River Hotel burned; 28, some cases of small-pox, especially among the negroes. 1869. Jan. 23, Mr. Crutcher's house burned; 27, a negro man, coin- mitted to jail for rape, was hung in the court-house yard. Feb. 2, Mrs. J. S. McFarland died, of pneumonia; 3, Mrs. Wm. Owen and B. H. Triplett died. March, cold weather and small-pox prevailing; 17, W. HI. McKay's warehouse burned. 421 HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. April 19, death of Mrs. Miles Lancaster, and 29, of Alf. Johnson. May 6, Miles Lancaster died; 26, Miss Betsey Burgess died; 25, three barges loaded with ice landed at Owensboro for sale. D. Monarch bought 100 tons, at 10 a ton. The blocks of ice weigh- ing 300 to 400 pounds were curiosities to many of the citizens. June 11, "' Dick" Hutchison died; 13, high wind,-blew down trees in some places. July 5, Sam Childers died; 7, Joseph Chatham, and 8, Eli Adams, died. Aug. 25, Mr. Hickey's house burned; " Davis" died from sun- stroke. Sept. 10, Mr. Lumpkin (the elder) died; 26, Mrs. Lucy Blincoe (nee Roberts) died. Oct. 11, F. L. Hall's new dramatic hall opened; 28, death of Captain Ellis and Wm. Harl. Nov. 3, death of Ed. Barber and Mrs. Venable. The whole month cloudy and chilly. Dec. 31, parsonage of a colored church burned. 1870. Jan. 21, roller skating rink opened,-Mr. France, manager; 23 Mrs. Sam. McClarty died. River very high this month. Feb. 7, death of Harp. Higdon. March 6, death of John W. Schenck; 19, of Mrs. P. F. Smith; 28, of Rev. Isham Howard, a colored minister. April 4, election of mayor, and negroes voted for the first time; 21, Dan McFarland died. May 9, J. Matthews killed by a kick from a horse; 22, James Craig died; 30, Mrs. Enoch Allen died. July 2, Mrs. A. B. Johnston died; 6, death of Mrs. Wm. Sharpe; 17, Mike Donahue was murdered by Link Ballard, at a small saloon a mile from the city; the murderer was aided by accom- plices; 19, of Mrs. I'Dink" Read; 20, one of the heaviest rains ever witnessed. Aug. 6, W. Anthony died. Oct. 4, death of Miss Amanda Weir; 16, of Charles Montgomery. Nov. 1, first biting frost; 13, Dan. Kennady died. - Dec. 8, 0. S. Warner's house burned; 19, Allen Yewell killed by a log at a house-raising; 21, first freezing weather; 26, ice six inches thick; 28, Mrs. "Ben" Abell died about this time; 31, locomotive Jo Daveiss put on the track and tried; Mrs. Donaldson died. 422 This page in the original text is blank. m .f 'ir oopp .bV '.1 /92 4 OWENSBORO. 1 871. Jan. 17, John G. Holloway died; 22, Hon. G. H. Yeam, re- moved to New York City. Feb. 3, death of Mrs. H. N. Davis; 4, of Captain Burge. April 4, Mrs. James Kennady and Mrs. Ed. Hawes died; 15, Win. Berry's still-house burned; 23, heavy frost. May 6, Elio Taylor died; 7, frost; 10, J. Villito killed by a saw- head; 16, 0. Cain killed Summers and wife; 8, first ",beer garden" in the county opened. June 2, death of Wmn. Curnmins; 7, meeting of the Kentucky editors in Owensboro; 10, Catholic picnic below town to raise funds for an organ: raised 400. July 4, mechanics' celebration and procession: J. Stuart, orator; 8, James Hathaway died; 27, death of Mrs. Murray, Nan nie Shipp and two children. Aug. 7, the circuit clerk's office was entered at night by a burg- lar, who cut out three slats of the shutters, and stole the docket for the ensuing term of court. A similar robbery was committed at preceding term of court. Aug. 19, death of Mrs. Adele Hagan; 28, of R. P. Aull. Sept. 18, Mrs. Willis Field died; 24, Mrs. Ogden (old lady), and 30, Ezekiel Camborn died. Oct. 5, Judge Botts died about this time; 18, death of' John O'Brien. Nov. 1, Judge Mcdenry died; 14, first wintry day. 1872. Jan. 5, an actress died or small-pox, at River Hotel; also to-day Lally Conway died; 27, a negro died of small-pox in town; 30, Mrs. Lily E. Mitchell died of congestion of the lungs. Severe winter. On the 29th the river closed for the third time, and re- mained closed until Feb. 11. Feb. 8, Ap. Spalding and Dr. J. Conway died; 21, another negro died of small-pox; 26, J. G. Delker's furniture factory burned; loss about 15,000; cause of fire unknown, but it origi- nated as if by an incendiary; 16, the railroad blacksmith shop was burned. March 6, Maggie Ferguson died of consumption; a backward spring; some small-pox in town. 423 HISTORY OF DABVESS COUNTY. April 3, J. P. Thompson died of brain fever; 14, a fire of mys- terions origin consumed the buildings on Frederica street, between Third and Fourth, belonging to Amos R. Hathaway, and the grocery stock of Alvey Brothers; total loss, 8,000 or 10,000. May 10, J. Vairian died; 27, Geo. Clements died. Sept. 19, A. Mooreland died. Dec. -, ice eight inches thick, and very clear; much ice on the roads, almost totally preventing travel; crops good this year; some time during 1872, Mr. Kincheloe killed Mr. Throckmorton, on a road a little west of Owensboro. 1873. Jan. 29, 4 below zero; a hard winter and hard times. Feb. 2, Henry Hager died; 4, Frank Hagan and Mrs. Hall died; a cold, disagreeable month. March 3, E. P. Washburn died; spotted fever prevalent; 5, Mrs. L. P. Little and child died; 6. Mrs. Harlin (of spotted fever) and Mr. Johnson died; 16, death of "Jack" Jones and Mrs. Fieher; 21, boiler exploded at M. V. Monarch's distillery and flew into the river, 200 or 300 yards distant; two colored men were fatally injured; excitement in town on account of small-pox or varioloid; a backward spring; peaches not in bloom until April 6. April 4, B. Trible died; 5, Miss O'Neal died; 10, death of John Sharp, Thomas Kinclieloe and Mrs. Win. Collins; 16, Mr. Incal died; 18, Barna Bunch died; 26, heavy frost. May 26, boiler in Rouse's mill exploded, killing two men. June 5, Jerome Mitchell died; 22, Catholic Temperance Union formned-25 members; 2t5. George Donaldson 'died of white swelling. July 2, death of Athy And; 4, of Frank Douring; 5, of Miss Margaret Vairen; 15, Mr. J. Mitchell died of cholera; 24, Miss Ann Hagan died of typhoid fever. Aug. 6, Joseph Allen killed by an unknown person; 18, Mrs. Gus. Talbott died; 21, death of L. L. Talbott; 27, Mrs. Chatham died. Sept. 2, Mrs. Rarick and two others died of cnolera; 5, Mrs. Charles Green died of same; 7, James Thomas died of typhoid ever; 15, death of Annie Mitcherson; 25, death of T. Greenwell; 27, Mary Carter died of typhoid fever; there were several other deaths among adults in Owensboro this month; the cholera cases were all in the upper part of town. 424 Oct. 4, Jeff. Underwood shot and killed by Bud Borie; 8, Miss Lou Davis died of typhoid fever; 17, R. G. Moorman died of typhoid pneumonia; 19. Miss Ada Thornton, and 20, John Todd; both died of typhoid fever; 28, Mrs. Thornton died of typhoid fever. 1874. May 12, Burns's tobacco factory was burned, with 250,000 pounds of tobacco, and adjoining buildings. Sol. Wile and W. S. Brittain (of Louisville) were also losers. First week in May, two large fires. Thomas O'Brien's stable, dwelling, etc., consumed; loss, 3,600; and the dwelling of W. L. Mitchnsson, on Railroad street. Aug. 3, George W. Swoope shot and killed Perry Riley, in the court-house yard near the polls on election day. The deceased left a wife and five small children. Five days afterward Mr. Swoope was admitted to bail in the sum of 5,000, but was finally acquitted on the ground of self-defense. Dec. 12, a block of buildings on the corner of St. Ann and Main streets was burned. Principal losers: W. N. Sweeney, D. M. Griffith, Charles Kabler and Mr. Driver. 1877. Nov. 30, Henry McDonald, restaurant keeper, committed suicide by taking chloroform. May 12, St Joseph's Church (German Catholic) was burned; loss, about 3,000; insurance, 1,000. Fire probably incendiary. 1878. Mr. Lavator, a " musical prodigy" as a violin-player, mysteriously appeared upon the streets of Owensboro in June, 1878, shoeless and shirtless, a wretched wanderer, gazing into vacancy and totter- ing along with nervous irregularity. Mr. Stone inquired into his case, and, being asked for a violin, furnished him one. He seized it and immediately astonished the bystanders with his powers. Prominent citizens then took up his cause and presented him on the stage two or three times. Oct. 11, Nick Neal killed Henry Gearhardt, two miles from Grissom's Landing, by stabbing him in the abdomen. Three others were wounded in the affray; it was a drunken spree. Neal was held to bail in a sum of 2,000. 425 OWENSBORO. HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. Oct. 25, Colin S. Throckmorton, formerly an officer in the U. S. navy, and widely known in this State, died in Owensboro, after a long illness. Nov. 17, the livery stable and warehouse of Hon. H. D. Mc- Henry, worth 1,500 or 2,000, were burned, along with several other buildings, at or near the corner of First and St. Ann streets, aggregating a loss of about 7,000. Cause of the fire probably in- cendiary, or at best by the carelessness of a tramp. Dec. 8, Dangerfield Hathaway, a colored boy sixteen years old, was stabbed and killed by Jesse Gibson, another colored lad six- teen or eighteen years old, on Fourth street, Owensboro. It was on Sunday, and Hathaway had just returned from church with a girl; 29, the frame cottage of A. G. Hawes, on Frederica street, was burned. 1879. May 2, a 1,500 fire occurred, between Mulberry and Walnut streets, the loss falling upon John Gillis, John Thixton, A. Rosen- feld and John Walt. June 20, another loss of 1,500 by fire was suffered by J. D. Murphy, and Hughes Alexander. Stable, eight horses and a mule burned. Two days afterward an incendiary burned the Southern Wheel and Handle Factory; loss, over 5,000, and throw- ing about fifty hands out of employment. Sept. 13, a ferocious hog seized a child named Lela A. Hlultse, while she was playing in the yard, and dragged the screaming sufferer a distance of fifty feet, almost killing her, before she was rescued. 1 880. April 10, the still-house, corn and cattle-shed of the John Han- ning distillery were consumed by fire; loss, over 6,000; on the 13th, Hope Mill, on Bolivar street, a dwelling on Third street, and other buildings were burned. J. B. Cruse Co., on the mill, lost over 6,000. The Misses Green lost 1,500. July 10, death of John A. Faulds, tobacconist, and a business man of high order. He was a native of Perthshire, Scotland; came to this country in 1855, at the age of eighteen. Aug. 26, about midnight, Johnson Cottrell's tobacco factory, P. J. Miller's residence, cottages belonging to Messrs. Woolfolk Tharp, and other buildings were consumed by fire; loss, over 30,000. 426 Sept. 5, N. M. Lancaster Co.'s large new distillery was de- stroyed by fire; loss, about 25,000; 9, J. S. Pottinger's large cooper-shop, at the west end of the city, was burned, throwing twenty-two men out of employment. Dec. 4, on account of some excavation near it, the old Wecker Hotel building fell with a terrible crash, accompanied with cries and shrieks of men, women and children; and, although there were three men, one woman and three children in the building, not one of them was seriously injured; total loss, about 900. It was built in 1850, at the foot of Frederica street, and occupied as a hotel until recently, when it was purchased by the People's Wharf Boat Company. 1881. June 22, death of Joseph Rothchild, Sr., a prominent and suc- cessful merchant, and founder of the I. 0. B. B. of Owensboro. July 13, a storm so severe as to unroof the court-house, damage many other valuable buildings and destroy thousands of trees. Sept. 6, W. E. Hubbard accidentally killed by the -falling of a derrick near Grimes's coal bank, a mile and a quarter from town. Oct. 8, Henry Nelson, colored, was shot down in cold blood at a negro dance in Owensboro. Nov. 13, death of Thomas Monarch, one of the most prominent pioneers of Daviess County. He lived to be eighty-one years of age. A biographical sketch of him. is published in the Daviess County Atlas and in the Messenger and Ecctmin7er of Nov. 16, 1881. Oct. 15, Jack Luckett was killed by Dick Vowells, in Herron Co.'s saloon on Main street. 1882. On the evening of Jan. 6, 1882, the building known as Hall's Opera House was discovered to be in flames. Intense excitement prevailed, which was increased by a rumor that there were people in the building who had failed to escape; this, however, was untrue, as every one had left the theater upon the first alarm of fire. The following is a list of those who suffered losses; Robert Nunn, grocer, lost everything his establishment contained; insured for 4,000. Parish's bookstore was pretty well consumed; loss cov- ered by insurance. H. Washburne, proprietor of the Planters' House saloon, was a great loser; loss also nearly covered by insur- 427 OWENSBORO. HISTORY OF DAVIESS COUNTY. ance. The Planters' Hotel was almost torn to pieces; it was saved from entire destruction by a fire-proof wall that intervened between it and the fire. The job office of 0. T. Kendall, the barber shop of Elijah Hathaway and the dwelling of L. M. Ogden were badly crushed by the falling of the north wall of the Opera House. The Georgia Minstrels, who were to have played that night, sustained great losses. The Opera House was owned by Alexander Hill, and was built in 1870, at a cost of 22,000. There was an insurance of 10,000 on the whole building. The fire appeared to have originated in the basement, under the grocery of Robert Nunn. April 16, death of Thomas Moreland, in his forty-first year. He was a Captain in the Confederate army. June 30, Madison Jessup shot and killed George Smith, a re- spectable citizen; both were colored. Jessup got away, and Artie, the wife of the deceased, was arrested for complicity in the act, found guilty and sentenced to imprisonment for life; but the Court of Appeals reversed the decision, and the case now stands continued in court. Sept. 1, 1882, C. W. Roby arose from his bed in a somnambulistic fit, precipitated himself from a second-story window, near Spoer- ri's Hotel, and killed himself. Oct. 16 occurred the death of Jacob Arnold, the oldest resident of Owensboro at the time, aged ninety-one years. He was a native of Alton, Switzerland, and the father of Theo, Godfrey and H. Ar- nold, all business men of Owensboro. Although he had been for some years a resident in this country, he never abandoned the language and dress of his native land; and it was a familiar sight on warm, bright mornings to see him for hours in the sunshine by the river, while his little grandchildren played near by. He never acquired the English language, and in his old age lie lived a quiet, uneventful life. In his death he left a wife, with whom he had lived threescore years, and who is now in her eiglhty-second year. Nov. 1, death of Benedict D. Coomes, in his seventy-fourth year, after a tedious illness. He was born in Nelson County, Ky., and came to this county about 1840. Dec. 25, a young negro named Charlie Weir killed Jim Mont- gomery, a white man, in a beer saloon in Owensboro. Weir and two negro girls were drinking beer, when Montgomery commenced a scuffle with him; on being ordered out of the saloon the negro 428 ran, followed by Montgomery, when the former shot and killed the latter. Self-defense was claimed. During this month an itinerant family stopped a few days in the suburbs of the city, one member of which was said to be 122 years old! Her hair was turning dark, her fingers plump and soft, and several other features of youth seemed to be returning. She is now dead. 1883. Jan. 16, death of Major John H. Smith, at the age of seventy- three. He built the first tobacco factory in Owensboro-probably the first west of the Allegheny Mountains; was a high-toned busi- ness man, wealthy, well-known and highly respected. BIOGRAPHICAL. Albert F. Alms, born in Evansville, Ind., July 23, 1851, was a son of Henry and Johanna (ioltz-Lossie) Alms, natives of Ger- many. His mother died in 1873. His father still lives in Evans- ville. In 1864 Albert F. came to Owensboro and shortlv after began to learn the tinner's trade, with H. Alms Co. He worked with them two years when the firm changed, Mr. Alms going out and the business being carried on by Mr. Lossie. le worked for Mr. Loseie until 1872 when he entered the firm as a partner with Wm. Lossie and John C. Frederick, under the firm name of Wmi. Lossie Co. Mr. Alms was married in 1881 to Kate, daughter of Henry Keller, and a native of Daviess County. The firm of Wm. Lossie Co. is one of the leading firms of the city. The store and salesroom is in charge of Mr. Frederick and the work- shop is under the general supervision of Mr. Lossie and Mr. Alms. Thomas Sidney Anderson was born July 8, 1842, in Daviess County, Ky. His father, James B. Anderson, was a native of Fay- ette County, Ky., and died in Owensboro, Oct. 17, 1864. He ha